Supporting Chosen Names and Pronouns

This page is designed to give guidance to anyone with questions about how to respectfully use chosen names and pronouns. A chosen name (sometimes known as a preferred name, a nickname, or a name-in-use) is the use of a name, usually a first name, that is different from a person’s legal name.

There are many reasons why someone may use a chosen name (formerly referred to as preferred name). While the most visible may be to reflect gender identity, other reasons why someone might use a chosen name include using a nickname, going by an Americanized name, or distinguishing oneself from someone with a similar name. For faculty and staff, using appropriate names and pronouns is an important way of establishing norms of respect with the students and staff you work with. For everyone, using appropriate names and pronouns signals your willingness to be inclusive to everyone.--Explanation written by the staff at Johns Hopkins University.

- How to Enter Chosen Name, Personal Pronoun, and/or Gender Identification.
  1. Log into the Portal (https://inside.mtsac.edu)
  2. Navigate to the Student Self-Service card on the dashboard homepage.
  3. Expand the Personal Information section.
  4. Click #38 (Name Change Information **Update Chosen Name).
  5. Click Edit in the Personal Details section.
  6. Enter your Chosen, Affirmed, or Preferred First Name in the Preferred First Name box. (Optional)
  7. Select your Personal Pronoun from the list. (Optional)
  8. Enter your Gender Identification from the list. (Optional)
  9. Click the Update Button to save your changes.
  Note: Your updated Chosen Name, Personal Pronouns, and/or Gender Identification will be reflected in the system almost immediately. Please allow 30 minutes for the changes to propigate to Canvas and other systems.