Pronouns and Preferred Names
In 2015, Ohio University adopted a Name and Pronoun Policy creating the opportunity for students to be identified with the name and/or pronoun they identify with. Though the policy was initially thought of for trans, non-binary, and gender expansive individuals, we quickly realized the wider implications for the university community (we recognize that there are multiple different reasons why an individual may want to go by a different name then their legal or dead name).
Feel free to reach out to the Center with any questions and/or for help in exploring pronouns and other dynamics of gender inclusive language.
Ohio University Registrar FAQ
We are mindful that navigating the world of gender-inclusive and gender-neutral language can be confusing, especially around pronouns. The OHIO Registrar's Office created a FAQ guide explaining the university's name and pronoun policy for students as well as other details regarding this effort.
Pronoun Policy
An overview of Policy 12.021; Ohio University is committed to fostering an environment of inclusiveness and supporting students' preferred form of self-identification. With this in mind, this policy provides definitions for and uses of names and pronouns recorded for students.
Helpful Resources for Understanding Pronouns
- GLSEN's Resource Guide (PDF)
- Caltech Center for Diversity's Pronoun Guide (PDF)
- Huffington Post article on "A Guide to Non-Binary Pronouns and Why They Matter"
Helpful Videos about the Importance of Pronouns
- Why Pronouns Matter for Trans People (BuzzFeed)
- One Word on Pronouns (Cut)