Texas A&M University’s 12-campus system deployed a new AI-driven student engagement platform aimed at Pell Grant-eligible students, connecting learners to financial aid, registration, counseling, and other support through a systemwide chatbot collaboration with Mainstay. Leaders say the effort centers on breaking down data silos across IT, financial aid, academic affairs, and student services. The implementation required coordinated process redesign rather than a plug-and-play tool. System leaders report it uncovered gaps such as difficulties applying for emergency aid and moments when students lacked awareness of key support services. Texas A&M plans broader integration across nine campuses by fall 2026, and early wins include extending outreach to “stopped-out” students after enrollment periods end—an operational capability that can reinforce retention and re-enrollment strategies.