Manchester University recognizes that many members of our community prefer to use names other than their legal names to identify themselves. The University is committed to using the preferred names of individuals in our community wherever possible. There are certain legal documents and communications that require use of an individual’s legal name.

The University allows students to use a first name different than their legal name on certain University records. Any student may choose to identify a preferred first name in addition to their legal name (as listed on the driver’s license, Social Security card, Tax Identification Number card, or passport). The University will display the preferred first name to the University community where feasible and appropriate and make a good faith effort to update reports, documents and systems accordingly.

The student’s preferred first name may be used in University-related systems and documents except where the use of the legal name is required by law.

Below is a partial listing of areas in which the preferred and legal names will appear:

Preferred name will appear:	Legal name will appear:
Advisor/advisee lists	Billing statements
Class/grade rosters	Enrollment verification
Commencement program	Financial aid documents
Dean’s List	Immigration documents
Diploma	Medical documents
Email display and username	Official correspondence with external entities
Gateway/SharePoint	Official and unofficial transcripts
ID card	Paychecks/W2/1099T
Major/minor lists
Online student directory
Residence Life rosters

 

Legal Name Change

Students who have had their legal names changed by the appropriate government entities shall inform the University of this change by completing and submitting the Personal Information Change form to the Office of the Registrar. Official documentation showing the name was changed legally is required. Acceptable documentation includes:

Court order
Driver’s license
Passport
Social Security card or Tax Identification Number card

Former names and previous identities are maintained in the University student information system database to ensure correct selection when records are searched.

Preferred Name

Students may request a preferred first name by completing the Preferred First Name eForm available through Gateway or by completing the Personal Information Change form in the Office of the Registrar.

The legal last name (surname) will remain unchanged and will be included with the preferred first name. Preferred first names are limited to alphabetical characters, a hyphen (-) and a space. The University reserves the right to deny a preferred first name request if it is inappropriate in nature. Preferred names used as misrepresentation or fraud can result in disciplinary action in accordance with University policy.

ID cards

Replacement ID cards bearing a preferred first name can be obtained in the Business Office. The standard replacement fee is $25.

Student Privacy Considerations

Consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Manchester University allows for the release of Directory Information, as defined under FERPA, which includes name (preferred), mailing and email addresses, phone numbers, dates of attendance, major, enrollment status, degrees awarded, honors received, participation in University activities, and height and weight of athletic team members. Students who wish to opt out of the release of Directory Information may complete and submit the Request to Withhold Directory Information Form.

The University honors all requests to withhold Directory Information, and assumes no liability for the effect withholding information has on the student. Directing the University to withhold directory information means enrollment and/or graduation will not be verified to potential employers, insurance companies or lending institutions. Also, the University will not include information regarding achievements (such as Dean’s List or graduation with honors) or campus activities (programs for musical or athletic events) for students requesting to withhold directory information.