Will the Chosen Name Be Used Everywhere at Kent State?

• No. The chosen name will be used where possible in the course of University business. There are places where the legal name will continue to be used for University business or legal needs. Those who are utilizing the chosen name should always be prepared to reference their legal name as well as provide their university identification when necessary. 

Where Will the Chosen Name Appear?

The Chosen Name will be implemented in the systems below.

How Is a Chosen Name Requested?

• A chosen name is requested through FlashLine. Please follow these instructions:
  • Log into FlashLine
  • Click on Settings to access Chosen Name, Pronouns, and/or Gender Identity Requests in the Secure Account Access Section
  • Click on Update Chosen Name.

Can Any Name Be Submitted as a Chosen Name?

• No. The University has the authority to deny or remove a chosen name at any time. Only the first name can be updated with a chosen name. Middle and last names cannot be updated through the chosen name process.

Can a Middle or Last Name Be Changed Using the Chosen Name?

• No. Only the first name can be updated with a chosen name.

What is a Chosen Name?

• Individuals may desire to be addressed by a name that is different than their legal name. Building a sense of belonging is part of Kent State University’s mission statement, and we recognize that some use a name other than their legal name to identify themselves. Kent State University has established a process for identifying a chosen name.
• The chosen name will be used where possible in the course of University business.

The Division of Student Life at Kent State University has been selected as one of the 2024 Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs (MPPWSA) by the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) — College Student Educators International and the Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine. The division has received this national recognition for the fourth consecutive year. Out of the 26 MPPWSA, Kent State was the only university in Ohio included in this year’s list.

The Ohio Council of Higher Education Retirees (OCHER) is offering a day-long conference at Quaker Station in Akron on Wednesday, Apr. 3, for the retired and soon-to-be retired. If you are within 3 years of retirement from Kent State, register by Mar. 27. Attend all day or part of the day. The $15 fee covers lunch, coffee/tea all day and parking. Questions?

The Flashes of DEI Podcast recently had the pleasure of speaking to Shana Lee, Stephanie Evans and Yvette Roberts regarding the creation, importance and work of the Women of Color Collective (WoCC). Click to tune in and hear about this group that provides a supportive space for faculty and staff women of color.