Preferred/Chosen Names and Pronouns Policy Revised

The University at Buffalo recognizes that individuals may use a first or middle name other than their legal name to identify themselves. Additionally, individuals may use pronouns that reflect their gender identity. The university will use an individual’s preferred/chosen name and pronouns, when possible, in the course of university education and business unless the legal name is required by law or the preferred/chosen name is used for purposes of misidentification, fraud, or misrepresentation. For identity verification purposes, individuals must use their legal last name. 

• Change the title of the policy from Student Preferred/Chosen Name to Preferred/Chosen Names and Pronouns
• Change the Category classification from Academic to Administration and Governance, Human Resources
• Clarify how names will appear on diplomas
• Include change of legal name and preferred first name request guidance for employees
• Revise the Background statement
• Revise the Applicability section to include all members of the university community including students, faculty, staff, volunteers, vendors, visitors, and guests
• Add a definition for Diploma Name Gender Marker, Honorifics, Misgendering, and Pronouns
• Clarify the definition of Preferred/Chosen Name
• Add a responsibility for university employees to use an individual’s chosen pronouns and honorifics
• Add a responsibility for Information Technology and Human Resources
• Add Preferred/Chosen Names and Pronouns Policy Guidance

This policy applies to all members of the university community, including students, faculty, staff, volunteers, vendors, visitors, and guests.