#United States #California #Entrinsik #Ask Gumby #California Lutheran

Transforming Student Experience at California Lutheran University

California Lutheran University (CLU) has taken a significant leap into the future of academic support by launching the innovative AI assistant known as "Ask Gumby". Developed by Entrinsik, a prominent figure in business intelligence and data analytics, this initiative is set to redefine how students and faculty interact with technology on campus.

Scheduled to roll out on April 11, 2025, as part of the Pearson Library's 40th anniversary celebration, "Ask Gumby" will provide round-the-clock assistance to the university community via the MyCLU App/Portal. This launch signifies not just technological advancement, but also a unique blend of tradition and innovation that CLU is proud to promote.

A New Standard for Academic Support

The introduction of "Ask Gumby" marks a transformative moment in higher education. According to Entrinsik CEO Brad Leupen, the company is dedicated to enhancing student success through effective data utilization. The AI assistant aims to elevate student expectations for information access and AI literacy, catering to a generation already accustomed to digital solutions in their educational pursuits.

Similar to a virtual mentor, "Ask Gumby" is adept at delivering quick, personalized answers to a variety of academic and administrative questions. Whether students seek information on course requirements or want to know the best places for coffee on campus, the AI is designed to provide accurate answers derived from real-time institutional data.

Justin Barkhuff, CLU’s Director of Enterprise Applications, emphasizes that their collaboration with Entrinsik has been pivotal. The synergy they’ve created serves as a model for other educational institutions, showcasing a forward-thinking approach in a rapidly evolving academic landscape.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Engagement

One of the key features of "Ask Gumby" is its ability to understand the context of inquiries and learn from each interaction. This capability not only enhances the relevance of responses but also opens doors for proactive communication. By analyzing patterns in student questions, this AI solution anticipates challenges that students may encounter, aiming to eliminate potential barriers to academic progress.

This proactive stance is a game-changer for CLU. Chief Information Officer Zareh Marselian highlights Entrinsik’s role as a critical partner rather than just a vendor, acknowledging their commitment to the university’s mission of providing intuitive and supportive technology. "Ask Gumby" goes beyond merely responding to queries; it strives to ensure that answers are secure, accurate, and grounded in the university's principles.

Future Prospects

As the pilot program kicks off, Entrinsik and CLU are eager to refine and expand the functionalities of "Ask Gumby", preparing for a full-scale launch in fall 2025. Future iterations may include features like student tutors and instructor assistants, solidifying the AI assistant's role in academic life.

The vision shared by CLU and Entrinsik transcends traditional models of educational support. It embodies a commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and a deeper understanding of student needs. With "Ask Gumby", students can expect a more integrated experience that streamlines their academic journey and fosters greater engagement with the university community.

To explore more about AI's potential in education, visit Entrinsik's AI for Higher Ed page.

About Entrinsik

Entrinsik has been a pioneer in data management and analytics for over four decades, providing solutions that help organizations turn data into insights. The advancement represented by "Ask Gumby" is just one aspect of their broader mission to enhance the capabilities of institutions across various sectors.

About California Lutheran University

Established in 1959, CLU is a vibrant community that welcomes thousands of undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds. The university's commitment to excellence in education and community service is reflected in its dedication to innovative, data-driven solutions for student engagement.