Updating Names and Pronouns

Overview: 

Some Humboldt students may identify by using a different name or pronoun than what is legally assigned. Using a person’s updated name and/or pronouns in conversation, email communication, in formal settings, and with others is a way to be respectful and inclusive.

Student Information: 

You have the right to be referred to by your updated name and/ pronouns. 

How to Update Legal (Primary) Name / Gender in your Humboldt Academic Records:

Cal Poly Humboldt offers students, staff, and faculty the option to use a name other than their legal name to identify themselves. Anyone who has made a change to their identity or legal name can use this web-form to update your legal (primary) name and/or gender designation in Humboldt academic records. For additional support, these links offer practical how-to guides for changing your name on campus:

Change Your Email Address To Your Updated Name: 

Anyone who has made a change to their identity or legal name can request a change to their Humboldt User Name, which will change their email address. Just submit a request to the Technology Help Desk and they'll walk you through the process.  

How To Ask Your Current Professors To Use Your Updated Name and/or Pronouns:

Sample Email

Professor __________,

I am a student in your (insert class name here). I am getting in contact with you to let you know that I identify as (insert identity here). My name will probably show up on your roster as (insert legal name here), but I go by (insert updated name here) and (pronouns). I will be putting (insert updated name here) on my assignments and would appreciate it if you called me by that name in class.

Thank you very much.

(Sign with updated name)

How To Notify Your Past Professors About a Change in Your Updated Name and/or Pronouns (for a reference check or recommendation letter):

Sample Email

Professor __________,

I was a student in your (insert class name here) back in the (fall/spring) of (year). While enrolled in your class, my name on the class roster was _____.  I am getting in contact with you to let you know that I now identify as (insert identity here). I am applying to (job or other) opportunities with my updated name and pronouns. Please note that the hiring/admissions staff will contact you about me with that updated information.

Thank you very much.

(Sign with updated name)

Additional Resources: