New year, new tools: Concordia expands campuswide access to generative artificial intelligence

MEQUON, Wis. — January 12, 2026 — Concordia University Wisconsin is leading the way in Wisconsin by expanding access to generative artificial intelligence campuswide with the launch of BoodleBox this February, reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce.

BoodleBox is a secure, university-supported platform that brings multiple generative AI tools into one integrated environment. Using CUW single sign-on and full integration with the university’s main learning platform, it will allow students, faculty and staff to access AI tools within courses and collaborative projects.

“This is about meeting students where they are,” said Dr. Leah Dvorak, vice president of academics. “AI is already shaping nearly every profession, and we have a responsibility to help students learn how to engage with it responsibly.”

Through BoodleBox, the CUW community will have unlimited access to paid versions of leading AI tools, including:

• ChatGPT 5.1
• Claude 4.5
• Gemini 2.5 Pro
• Perplexity
• Semantic Scholar
• DALL-E 3

Consolidating these tools into one platform removes barriers created by limited free trials and individual subscriptions, ensuring equitable access across disciplines.

“Our responsibility is to ensure graduates are prepared for the realities of today’s workforce,” Dvorak said. “Employers are seeking individuals who can use AI tools creatively and responsibly while exercising strong judgment and discernment.”

Designed with teaching and learning as the priority, BoodleBox allows users to compare different AI models, explore research-focused tools, and engage with course-specific AI bots trained only on approved materials. Faculty and students can collaborate within shared environments that encourage inquiry while reinforcing academic integrity.

Dr. Michael Litman, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science, emphasized the importance of intentional use.

“The real opportunity is treating AI as a dialogue partner,” Litman said. “Used well, it pushes students to ask better questions, identify gaps in their understanding and connect ideas across disciplines. The goal isn’t faster completion of assignments. It’s helping students value learning itself.”

Security and responsible use were central to CUW’s decision. BoodleBox is HIPAA- and FERPA-compliant and does not use entered data to train large language models. The launch aligns with CUW’s Artificial Intelligence Governance Plan, which establishes ethical expectations rooted in the university’s Christian commitment to integrity, stewardship, human dignity, and care for others.

This launch is part of Concordia University’s broader leadership in mission-centered artificial intelligence. Through the AI & Quantum Lab, the bachelor’s degree program in artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary curriculum and research, Concordia continues to prepare students to lead thoughtfully and ethically in a rapidly evolving digital world — aligning innovation with faith, vocation and service.

About Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Concordia provides a wealth of academic experiences in the creative and performing arts. These programs are open to all students in the Concordia community, regardless of academic major or minor, as an enriching part of a broad liberal arts education.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.