UT Arlington launches AI tool to support student care

The University of Texas at Arlington is piloting an AI tool that helps reduce administrative workload for counselors, giving them more time to focus on students.

Known as Lucy, the tool helps Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) staff work more efficiently while preserving the central role of human-centered care.

“Student success is shaped by far more than what happens in the classroom. At UT Arlington, we’re committed to creating an environment where students feel supported, connected and cared for throughout their college experience,” UTA President Jennifer Cowley said. “Innovations like Lucy help strengthen that work by giving our teams more capacity to focus on the people at the center of our mission.”

Lucy, named after the Peanuts character, was designed as a “precision retrieval” tool that provides internal-only information on UTA-specific forms, policies, workflows and documentation guidance, according to Yaroub Saleh, a UTA counseling specialist who created the tool with support from the innovation team from the University’s Office of Information Technology.

“Every minute saved from searching for a form is a minute that can be used to help a student,” Saleh said. “Lucy is a good example of how we can use AI ethically to support our students. And it’s been working. Providers tell me it saves time and gives them accurate information.”

“For example,” he continued, “if a provider is treating a student who is a minor, they used to have to dig through lengthy policy documents that have undergone multiple updates. With Lucy, they can get the exact process to follow and the correct forms in seconds. It’s accurate, consistent and reliable. Because providers receive the same information, it also reduces mistakes.”

Early feedback has been positive, Saleh said, with providers citing simplified day-to-day operations and a reduced administrative burden. Saleh said other universities are already reaching out to explore similar AI tools.

Ultimately, Lucy helps CAPS staff fulfill their mission of helping students increase self-awareness, address mental health and emotional concerns, and make positive changes in their lives. CAPS services are available to all UTA students, with in-person offices in Ransom Hall and the Maverick Activities Center. Virtual care is also offered 24/7 through TimelyCare.