In the latest episode, Mike Palmer welcomes Erika Blumenthal, the Chief Operating Officer at Benefits Data Trust (BDT), and Daniel O’Donnell, the Associate Director of Higher Education at BDT. The discussion revolves around the organization’s mission to assist individuals in accessing social safety net benefits in the U.S., with a particular focus on supporting college students. They also touch upon how they utilize a Chatbot named Wyatt to communicate benefits to higher education students.
Erika and Daniel share insights into their professional backgrounds and how they found their way to BDT. They delve into the challenges that students encounter, such as food insecurity and the intricate process of applying for benefits like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
The conversation highlights Wyatt, an AI chatbot developed by BDT to help students complete the FAFSA. Daniel explains how Wyatt utilizes AI and text messaging to offer scalable support, addressing the need for accessible guidance given recent FAFSA changes. They make reference to an Education Northwest Report discussed in the episode.
The stigma surrounding public benefits is also explored, with a call for a shift in language and approach. Erika and Daniel emphasize BDT’s initiatives to raise awareness, streamline processes, and collaborate with universities and state agencies to connect students with the necessary resources for their persistence and graduation.
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Episode References
Baker, S. (2024, March 5). I Was a Higher Ed Case Manager: What I Wish I Knew Then About Helping Students. https://www.bdtrust.org/
Hodara, M., Uriostegui, M., Maller, R., & Davidson, S. (2023). Connecting College Students to Public Benefits. Education Northwest. https://bdtrust.org/connecting_students_to_benefits_report_april2023.pdf