Introducing CatGPT: The World’s First AI Powered by Authentic Vermont Wisdom – Discover What UVM Has Created!

In a fun twist for tech and local culture lovers, the University of Vermont (UVM) is set to launch CatGPT on April 1. This is no ordinary chatbot; it’s designed specifically for the unique culture and folklore of Vermont, promising answers that come straight from the Green Mountain spirit.

Named after UVM’s mascot, the Catamount, CatGPT is designed to tackle questions about local life. Whether it’s tips on sustainable farming or debates over flannel weight for sugaring season, this chatbot aims to reflect the wisdom of its community. Dr. Mable Sappling, UVM’s Director of Emerging Technologies, emphasizes that CatGPT embodies Vermont’s ethos of “For People and Planet.”

What makes CatGPT stand out? Unlike typical AI models that pull information from vast online sources, CatGPT has been trained solely on Vermont-focused content. This includes historical town meeting minutes, diner wisdom, and even playful debates on how to spell "creemee."

Initial tests reveal CatGPT’s quirky personality. When asked about climate change, its response was, “If the frost heaves in March don’t scare you, wait till the black flies in June.” For stock market advice, it suggested investing in maple trees because “they aren’t going anywhere.” Even when asked about the meaning of life, it cleverly responded, “Depends. Are we talking life before or after mud season?”

Still, this unique AI isn’t without its peculiarities. Some users were baffled when CatGPT dismissed New York-style bagels and insisted on answering questions in the form of Robert Frost poems. Others noted that it struggled with modern concepts, like NFTs, questioning why anyone would trade "funny money" instead of bartering for farm-fresh eggs.

Looking ahead, UVM plans to integrate CatGPT more into campus life. Enhancements like an AI course scheduler that respects the student sleep policy and a weather chatbot for outdoor dining decisions are on the horizon. While some skeptics wonder if CatGPT’s charm can extend beyond Vermont, Dr. Sappling believes its focus on practical, self-reliant thinking could set a new standard for AI.

CatGPT is currently exclusive to the UVM community, but a public version is in the works—just after mud season! So, if you’re curious to ask CatGPT something, remember to keep it friendly and a bit cheeky, like you would when chatting with a neighbor over coffee.

For more details on this fascinating development, check out the University of Vermont announcement.

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