Name Changes

Whatcom Community College recognizes the 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 following the instructions listed 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 are not the same as a legal name change.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a preferred name?

A preferred name is the name a student wishes to be known 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 staff supports a respectful learning environment. The reasons for choosing a preferred name are personal and different for each individual.

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. Some of the reasons for having a preferred name that is different from their legal name include:

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 name instead of their legal first name.

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.

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
Navigate360
Degree Planner and Early Alert (Starfish - retired)
Student Conduct Data System (Maxient)
Access Services AIM Portal
RAVE Emergency Alert System
ALMA Library System
Student Recreation Center/Pavilion (Fusion)
Diplomas
Commencement Events

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?

How do I change the name on my diploma prior to graduation?

By default, diplomas are issued with your preferred name. To have a different name on your diploma, you can add a "Degree Name" through your ctcLink portal. Here are instructions explaining the steps:

1. After logging in to your ctcLink portal, click on “My Profile” on the left-hand side banner

2. Click on “Biographical Information” from the dropdown options

3. Click on "Add Name" and select "Degree"

Enter Prefix (if applicable)
Enter First Name
Enter Middle Name (if applicable)
Enter Last Name
Enter Suffix (if applicable)

4. Click "Save" to apply changes.

Names are printed as entered on your profile (with or without capitalization). For example, if you list: finn orca, your diploma name will be all lowercase letters: "finn orca"

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

Where does the college use my legal name?

What is a legal name?

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

Bring one of the following documents below to Orca Central, located in the Heiner Building. Alternatively, you can email the document(s) 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. Note: Per State policy, the court document(s) obtained will be retained by the college as it is deemed part of the student's permanent record.

Legal Documentation Options:

Marriage certificate/license (filed and certified by the
court
Original birth certificate and current driver’s license
Court order(filed and certified by the court)
Divorce decree (filed and certified by the court)
Passport and another legal document showing former
name
Driver’s license with former name and driver’s license
with new name

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

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

Where do I go to get support?

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

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

Counseling Services | Laidlaw 134 | 360.383.3139

Intercultural Center | Syre 217 | 360.383.3100

Student Help Desk | Learning Commons 117 | 360.383.3410

Human Resources | Laidlaw 235 | 360.383.3400

Office of Community Standards | Laidlaw 135 | 360.383.3078

Campus Safety and Security | Laidlaw 103 | 360.383.3446