In support of Santiago Canyon College's commitment to providing an equitable and safe environment for students whose legal name does not reflect their gender identity and/or gender expression, SCC now accepts requests from students to use a preferred first name on class rosters whenever possible. Students who wish to designate a preferred name should fill out the Preferred Name Change Form. It is important to understand that designating a preferred name for use at SCC does NOT constitute a legal name change. A students' legal name will continue to be used on certain college documents, such as transcripts. The preferred names will only be used on class rosters and waiting lists for use by instructors and departments.
Students may designate a first preferred name. Their legal last name will remain unchanged and will be included with their preferred name. Preferred names are limited to alphabetical characters, a hyphen (-) and space. Generally, students can set a preferred name to any name, but the college reserves the right to delete a preferred name if it is used inappropriately, such as misrepresentation or fraud; such usage will also subject the student to disciplinary action in accordance with college policy.
Examples of preferred names that will not be approved:
- Names containing foul or inappropriate language as deemed by the Admissions and Records Office
- Names used for the purpose of misrepresentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a preferred name?
A preferred name is a name that you can designate to be used on class rosters in addition to your legal name. It is a name that you wish to be known or identified by and is different from your legal name. Santiago Canyon College students will be able to designate a preferred name beginning in spring 2016.
Complete the form and return to:
Admissions and Records Office
8045 E. Chapman Avenue
Orange, CA 92869
Email: admissions@sccollege.edu
What are the guidelines for setting preferred names? Can it be whatever I want?
You may designate a first preferred name. Your legal last name (surname) will remain unchanged and will be included in your preferred name. Preferred names are limited to alphabetical characters, a hyphen (-) and space. Generally, you can set a preferred name to any name, but the college reserves the right to delete a preferred name if it is used inappropriately, such as misrepresentation or fraud; such usage will also subject the student to disciplinary action in accordance with college policy.
Examples of preferred names that will not be approved:
- Names containing foul or inappropriate language as deemed by the Admissions and Records Office
- Names used for the purpose of misrepresentation
Are there instances where the preferred name will not be used?
Preferred names will not be used in cases where the legal name is required, including, but not limited to, financial aid documents, official transcripts, diplomas, payroll records, and federal immigration documents. In some cases, if you use a preferred name, it might be necessary to clarify that your preferred name is different from your legal name. Also, as the campus is engaged in several projects involving student information systems, some systems may not be able to accommodate the preferred name until a later period.
How many times can I change my preferred name?
You are allowed only one preferred name selection during your entire time at Santiago Canyon College. If you are unhappy with your selection you are welcome to change it back to your official name of record, but you may not select a different preferred name.
Can I delete my preferred name?
Yes. If you have designated a preferred name and later decide that you would prefer to use your legal name on the class roster, contact the Admissions and Records Office.
How do I correct or change my legal name at Santiago Canyon College?
You can change your legal name by completing and submitting the Request for Name Change Form (available in the Admissions and Records Office). You will need to present official documentation that your name was legally changed.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
