A preferred name (also referred to ask a chosen name, a nickname, or a name-in-use) is the use of a name that is different from a person’s legal name. There are many reasons why an individual may use a preferred name. While the most visible may be to reflect gender identity, other reasons why someone may use a preferred name include using a nickname or distinguishing oneself from someone with a similar name. For everyone, using appropriate names and pronouns signals your willingness to be inclusive to everyone.

A cohort of PhD Counseling Education and Supervision students recognized, during a course on Multiculturalism, that Microsoft Teams does not have the option to recognize chosen names or include pronouns within the platform. The cohort of students would like to advocate for this change with Microsoft. Please consider adding your signature and support the importance of recognizing and respecting each individual when using the Teams platform.

Thank you for being part of the solution of inclusion.