Chosen Name and Pronoun Policy announcement

July 26, 2023 - Melissa Woo, Ph.D., and Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D.

Michigan State University students, staff and faculty,

We are pleased to announce the implementation of the Chosen Name and Pronoun Data Policy at MSU. This policy ensures that all internal systems align with our commitment to accessibility, opportunity and inclusive excellence.

Under this policy, all database categories and labels utilized in enterprise systems will support and align with chosen name and pronouns unless otherwise required for legal compliance, operational needs, accreditation and external research conditions. MSU systems will eventually be required to undergo the appropriate modifications to support and align with the policy.

Participants will have the right to voluntary participation, and MSU will not disclose identity information except when legally mandated or out of legitimate institutional necessity.

The Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion and the Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration is collaborating with the project management office and workgroup to create an implementation road map to advance the policy requirements across enterprise data systems.

For technical support, contact the MSU IT Help Desk. For policy inquiries, reach out to the IDI office via inclusion.msu.edu. You can also visit the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center for additional resources. 

We believe that this policy, listed on University Policies, is an important step toward creating a more inclusive and respectful environment at MSU. By respecting and valuing individual identities, we strengthen our community and foster a culture of belonging.

Sincerely,

Melissa Woo, Ph.D. (she/her)
Executive Vice President for Administration and Chief Information Officer

Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D. (he/him)
Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer