Green Bay Reporter

Green Bay, Wis.— UW-Green Bay has initiated a new AI-powered service to assist its students. The university is the first in the Universities of Wisconsin system to implement this technology. The service provides support through a two-way texting platform, allowing students to access campus resources and other information at any time.

The AI tool, named Phlash, is designed to aid undergraduate degree-seeking students by giving them an additional means of communication and support. Chancellor Michael Alexander emphasized the university's mission of accessibility and student success, stating that connectedness and belonging are key factors in academic perseverance. "Our advisors do this personally, and now we have a little more help in doing this with Phlash," he said.

Since the launch on September 23, there has been significant engagement from students. Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Access & Success Meagan Strehlow reported that "ninety-six percent of UW-Green Bay students have opted in so far to receive messages from Phlash." In just the first 24 hours, over 2,194 texts were exchanged between students and the service.

Phlash operates continuously, providing check-ins every 7-10 days while allowing students to opt out if they choose. Urgent cases are referred to appropriate support offices using established protocols. For further assistance, students are directed to the Student Service Center for referrals through existing processes.

The texting technology is supplied by EdSights. Co-Founder and Co-CEO Carolina Recchi expressed enthusiasm about their partnership with UW-Green Bay: "I can’t wait to watch this partnership unfold and see firsthand all of the amazing ways we can support their students."

UW-Green Bay serves over 10,300 students across various programs and locations in Northeast Wisconsin. It continues its mission of inclusivity and bold thinking since its establishment in 1965.