Chosen First Name

Chosen First Name

Using Your Chosen First Name at Kalamazoo Valley

At Kalamazoo Valley Community College, we recognize that many people use a name other than their legal name to identify themselves. As part of our commitment to fostering a belonging community, we support the use of chosen first names in many areas of college life. These include class rosters, email display names and student ID cards.

Your legal name will be used where required by law or college policy, such as student financial accounts, financial aid documents and transcripts (official and unofficial).

We are phasing in the universal use of chosen first names wherever possible, except where legal name is required. This transition will occur throughout the next calendar year, with updates to systems and communications happening in stages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chosen name?

A chosen name is the first name you prefer to be known by in college systems and communications, where legal name use is not required.

Where will my chosen name appear?

Your chosen first name will appear in/on:
  • Canvas
  • College correspondence
  • Degree Works
  • MyValley

Where will a legal name still be used?

Your legal name will be used where required by law, reporting or official college records including:
  • Admissions application
  • Degree verification
  • Enrollment verification
  • Federal and state agency reporting
  • Financial aid documents
  • SEVIS (immigration status reporting)
  • Student financial accounts (billing, loans and collections)
  • Transcripts (official and unofficial)
  • Travel and expenses

Where will both my chosen and legal names appear?

  • Instructor class lists
  • Systems used by student services staff, when possible
  • Valley ID card

Are there additional places where I can choose to display my chosen name?

Yes, you will have the option to display your chosen name in/on:
  • Commencement program
  • Diploma
  • Email address
  • Email display name

How long before a chosen first name is displayed?

Most systems update within 1-3 business days after approval. Some may take longer due to scheduled updates.

Can I change my chosen name more than once?

Yes, once per semester. Excessive changes may be reviewed to ensure system stability.

Are there character restrictions?

Yes. Due to system limitations, your chosen first name may only contain uppercase and lowercase letters, spaces and hyphens. Please enter your name using proper case, not all uppercase or lowercase. We are unable to accept apostrophes and accent marks.

What standards or restrictions apply?

Chosen names must be appropriate for an academic environment and not used to misrepresent your identity or avoid legal obligations. Names containing profanity, hate speech or slurs will be denied.

How do I change my legal name?

Submit a "Change Personal Information" form found in "My Links" in MyValley. You will be required to upload official documentation (such as a court order or updated government-issued ID).

How to Let Us Know Your Chosen First Name

For New or Returning Students:

  • Apply for Admission
    When completing your application to Kalamazoo Valley, simply enter your chosen first name in the designated field.

For Current Students:

  1. Log into MyValley
    Go to "My Profile & Settings" and select "Chosen First Name."
  2. Submit Your Name
    Type your chosen first name and click "Submit."
  3. Track Your Request
    You'll receive email updates in your Valley email as your request is reviewed and processed.

How We Review Chosen First Name Requests

All requests are reviewed by staff in the Admissions, Registration and Records office. Our goal is to ensure names are appropriate for an academic setting, not to censor.

  • Automatically Approved: Common names or nicknames.
  • Flagged for Review: Uncommon names
  • Automatically Excluded: Special characters other than hyphens due to system limitations

Chosen names must be appropriate for an academic environment and not used to misrepresent your identity or avoid legal obligations. Names containing profanity, hate speech or slurs will be denied.

What Happens Next?

Update Your Valley ID Card for Free

Once your chosen name is approved, request a new Valley ID card.

  • In MyValley, go to "My Profile & Settings" and select "Valley ID Request" to get a new ID with your chosen name.
  • ID cards are also available in person.
    • Texas Township Campus (Student Services desk, main lobby)
    • Anna Whitten Hall (Student Services office, main lobby)
    • Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building (Second Floor Office, by appointment)

Please note: Your legal name will appear on the back of your Valley ID card.

Request a Username Change (Optional)

  • Usernames are typically based on your first initial and last name. In many cases, a change may not be needed.
  • If it is needed, log into MyValley, go to "My Profile & Settings," select "Change Username."
  • Username changes are processed between semesters to minimize disruptions.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need help with the process, our Admissions, Registration and Records team is here to support you. E-mail , call 269.488.4281 or visit TTC Room 9140.