Redhawks ID Services

Southeast Missouri State University recognizes that individuals may prefer to identify themselves by a First Name other than their Legal Name. Therefore, beginning in February 2017, ID Services will support the use of a Preferred Name that differs from a person’s legal name within the university community on their Redhawks ID cards and required identification badges.

Individuals who wish to use a Preferred Name on their university identification card or badge, must have previously either requested a Preferred Name at time of admission to the University, or have completed the Preferred First Name form by updating the personal information system (My Southeast portal). To access the Preferred Name form:

1. Log into the portal, portal.semo.edu, using your SEKey and password.
2. Select either the Student SS or Employee SS tab.
3. Locate the Personal Information Section.
4. Select, complete and submit the Update Preferred First Name form.

What is a Legal Name?

A Legal Name is the name that appears on an individual’s passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, or U.S. Social Security Card.

What is a Preferred Name?

A Preferred Name is a name an individual wishes to be known by in the University community that is different from an individual’s Legal Name. Southeast Missouri State University’s Preferred Name guidelines only cover Preferred First Name. Surnames (last names) can be changed only with a legal name change.

Are there any Preferred Name Restrictions?

Preferred Names may not be used for purposes of fraud or misrepresentation. The University reserves the right to remove a Preferred Name if it contains inappropriate or offensive language.

Do I have to get a new Redhawks ID Card if I choose to have a Preferred Name?

No. Use of a Preferred Name on a Redhawks ID Card is an option provided to any individual. Each individual will be asked to select between having a Legal Name or Preferred Name printed on their Redhawks ID Card at the time each card is produced; however, an individual is only allowed to have one Redhawks ID at any time.

Is my Preferred Name Redhawks ID Card acceptable for proof of legal identity?

No. Individuals who are issued ID cards with a Preferred Name that is different from the Legal Name should be aware that such cards are issued for University business only and that Redhawks ID cards may not be considered government issued identification for purposes of voting, air travel, etc. Individuals are encouraged to carry a government-issued form of ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID) in order to access non-University resources.

How do I obtain my Preferred Name on my Redhawks ID Card or Badge?

In order to receive a Redhawks ID Card or badge with your Preferred Name, follow these steps:

• Verify that your Preferred Name appears in the personal information system (Portal). If you have not entered a preferred name in Banner via the Portal, please visit either the Student SS or Employee SS tab. Then under the Personal Information Section, please select Update Preferred First Name to check, change or add a preferred name to your University record.
• Once that is completed, visit the ID Services desk, located in the Main Lobby of the 3rd floor of the University Center, to request a Redhawks ID with your Preferred Name.
• If you want to double check that your Preferred Name appears in the ID system prior to coming in person to request your card, please call the main ID Services number is (573) 651-2896. The secondary number is (573) 651-2280 for summer and break periods. Namescannot be edited in anyway by the ID Services staff.

How much does it cost to receive a card/badge bearing a Preferred Name?

All first time Redhawks or Cape College Center ID Cards are issued for FREE. Identification badges required as part of a program or as a condition of employment are billed at the rate established by ID Services and agreed to by the requiring department(s). Any card/badge requested after the first card/badge which is not necessitated by a Legal Name change or that does not require replacement due to the card/badge no longer functioning properly through normal wear and tear will be assessed a $15.00 replacement fee.

For more information

If you have questions about changing a legal name in Missouri, more information may be found at: courts.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=3834

If you have already legally changed your name and need to updated your official University record, please visit the Registrar’s page to complete the appropriate form and submit required documentation: semo.edu/pdf/NameSSNChangeForm.pdf