Request to change your preferred name

Whatcom Community College recognizes usage of preferred names whenever possible. We believe in creating an inclusive, welcoming, and affirming environment for all students. A preferred name is the name a student can designate to be used instead of a legal name. Students may opt to use a preferred name by completing the information below.

Students are able to request that the College update their WCC email address and display name to reflect a preferred name. It is important to note that making these changes to the student email address and display name is not the same as a legal name change.

FAQs

What is a preferred name?

A preferred name is the name a student wishes to be know by that is different from their legal name.

Whatcom Community College recognizes the use of preferred names whenever possible. We believe in creating an inclusive, welcoming, and affirming environment for all students. Referring to students by the name they wish to be called in classrooms and when interacting with college personnel supports a respectful learning environment. The reasons for choosing a preferred name are personal and different for each individual.

How do I change my preferred name?

You can change your preferred name in your ctcLink portal. Here are instructions explaining the steps.

Students are able to request that the College update the WCC student email address and display name to reflect a preferred name. Students that already have a WCC student email will need to save any needed data from their current student email before the new student email can be created to reflect the preferred name.

It is important to note that making changes to the student email address and display name is not the same as a legal name change.

FAQs

When will I see my preferred name reflected in my student account?

Once you have submitted your preferred name change request, it will take 3-5 business days to update your preferred name. If your email address is changing, your old network account will be removed after seven days and will be replaced by a new one that reflects your preferred name. During that window of time, you are responsible for backing up your emails and files before your old account is removed.

How do I get my preferred name printed on my Orca ID Card?

Once you have added your preferred name in your ctcLink portal, you may visit Orca Central in the Heiner Building to have your Orca ID Card printed. Please allow 1-2 business days for your preferred name to be updated in the college system before going to Orca Central to update your Orca ID Card.

Do I need to pay for an updated Orca ID Card?

No.

Why would someone want to use a preferred name?

The reasons for choosing a preferred name that may be different from a legal name are personal and different for each individual. Students may have many reasons for asking to have their preferred names, over their legal names, displayed on non-legal documents including:

• Choosing a name that aligns with their gender identity.
• Desiring to use a “Western” or “Americanized” name rather than their legal name from another country.
• Preferring to use a nickname or middle instead of their legal first name.

Why does Whatcom Community College use preferred names on non-legal documents?

Referring to students by the name they wish to be called in classrooms and when interacting with college faculty and staff supports a respectful learning environment. Whatcom Community College values and affirms diverse experiences and perspectives. We strive to create a welcoming and respectful learning environment, promoting access, opportunity and justice for all students.

Where will my preferred name appear?

Currently, preferred names appear in the following systems:

• Canvas
• Class Rosters
• WCC Student Orca ID cards
• Student E-mail Accounts
• Degree Planner and Early Alert (Starfish)
• Student Conduct Data System (Maxient)
• Access Services AIM Portal
• RAVE Emergency Alert System
• ALMA Library System
• Student Recreation Center/Pavilion (Fusion)
• Diplomas

Where does the college use my legal name?

All other activities that require use of a legal name such as:

• Transcripts
• International Students Documentation
• Financial Aid Records
• Student Employment Records
• Federal Requests for Information
• National Student Clearinghouse
• Public Records Requests
• Other Legal Documents

Students who want to change their first name on these documents must provide legal documents.

What is a legal name? 

A legal name is the name that appears on your passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, or U.S. Social Security Card.

I changed my legal name. How do I update my education records?

Bring your court documents or marriage certificate to Orca Central, located in the Heiner Building. Alternately, you can email them to records@whatcom.edu with a request for an update to your legal name. Please do not email your Social Security Card for security purposes.

What if faculty/staff do not refer to me by my preferred name?

Students who experience problems, bias, or discrimination related to their primary name may contact the Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT) for resources and assistance.

How do I report bias and/or discriminatory behaviors or processes?

Whatcom Community College’s Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy (Student Code of Conduct) prohibits individuals from using lewd, indecent, and/or discriminatory behavior. You can submit an incident report or contact the Office of Community Standards at LDC 208 in the Laidlaw Center at (360) 383-3070. 

Where do I go to get support?

Whatcom Community College has a variety of resources to explore and address your needs:

Entry Services (Admissions & Registration) | LDC 102 | 360.383.3030

Orca Central (Student Services Center) I HNR Main Floor I 360.383.3080

Counseling Services | LDC 116 | 360.383.3080

Intercultural Center | SSC 217 | 360.383.3100

Student Help Desk | LRN 117 | 360.383.3410

Human Resources | LDC 235 | 360.383.3400

Office of Community Standards | LCD 208 | 360.383.3070

Campus Safety and Security | ASB 114 | 360.383.3394