IBM has announced a partnership with Penn State University to develop MyResource, an AI-powered virtual assistant designed to enhance student access to campus services. The tool, which is expected to launch in the fall semester, aims to provide nearly 90,000 students at Penn State with streamlined information about resources such as academic advising, health and wellness, and financial aid.
The initiative was prompted by feedback from student leaders and a university analysis highlighting the need for improved access to campus services. "At Penn State, student success is our priority," stated Neeli Bendapudi, President of Penn State. "We're thrilled to collaborate with IBM to leverage advancements like generative AI."
Frank Attaie, IBM General Manager for the Public Sector, expressed enthusiasm for the project: "IBM is honored to co-create a solution with Penn State that will play a significant role in its goal to advance engagement from students through an AI-infused assistant."
MyResource will be built using IBM's watsonx portfolio of AI products. Watsonx.ai will host and train foundation models using data provided by Penn State, ensuring prompt answers and recommendations while maintaining safety protocols. Additionally, watsonx Discovery's conversational search capabilities will be employed to improve response quality.
IBM plans to extend this solution to other higher education institutions across the United States.
