Student Handbook 2025-26

Preferred and Legal Name Policy

Beacon College recognizes that many members of its community members use names other than Legal Names that were first provided to the College to identify themselves. For some students, a chosen Preferred Name may be an important part of their identity. Therefore, the College has established guidelines that allow students and employees to indicate their preferred first names to the College community even if they have not changed their legal names.

When making a name change request, the student accepts the risk of confusion and unforeseen results from using a name that differs from the name on college records.

Legal Name

A name, also commonly known as a given name, that appears on the state issued ID card, driver’s license, passport, social security card, birth certificate, and immigration documents. Documentation (marriage license, court order, divorce decree, etc.) is required to change a legal name. A legal name change will result in a comprehensive change in the individual’s records.

Preferred Name

A first name that one may prefer to be called. It is different from one’s legal first name and no legal documentation is required. A preferred name is generally used by individuals who choose to use:  A middle or nickname (as an alternative for the first name)  An English language nickname adopted by international or other students  A name that better represents the individual’s gender identity  A name that the individual is in the process of changing to legally

Student Handbook AY 2025-2026 | Version 032026

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