Equity & Inclusion

Pronoun Use

Pronouns are an important part of how we identify and how we are identified. Understanding and respecting the use of pronouns and how members of our campus community identify is one way Hofstra embodies our values of embracing diversity and practicing inclusion.

Assuming what a person’s pronouns are or actively ignoring identified pronouns can send a harmful and marginalizing message.

As a community centered on education, we each participate in ongoing learning, including the importance of pronouns and being better allies to community members who are transgender, genderqueer, or nonbinary. We expect that you will join us in continuing to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all.

It is important that Hofstra faculty, administrators, staff, and students respect gender pronouns because of the following:

  • Discussing and using accurate pronouns set a tone for allyship within the Hofstra community.
  • Using correct pronouns promotes a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.
  • Showing respect for identities within the campus community removes potential barriers for learning.
  • Hofstra P.R.I.D.E. Values and community standards embrace diversity and inclusivity, which contributes to the culture of respect expected from members of the campus community.
  • Hofstra University policy

What is a Pronoun?

Pronouns are words used in place of nouns that have been previously stated or nouns that do not require a specific name. 

Personal pronouns refer to the person or people speaking or writing (first person), the person or people being spoken to (second person), or other people or things (third person).

  • Using the pronouns aligned with how a person identifies is a way of showing respect and proper recognition of their identity.
  • Assuming the pronouns of another person may be harmful or marginalizing.

Subject

Object

Possessive

Possessive Pronoun

Reflexive

He

Him

His

His

Himself

“He called”

“I told him”

“His phone”

“It is his”

“He did it himself”

She

Her

Her

Hers

Herself

“She called”

“I told her”

“Her phone”

“It is hers”

“She did it herself”

They

Them

Theirs

Theirs

Themselves

“They called”

“I told them”

“Their phone”

“It is theirs”

They did it themselves

Where will the Pronouns be Visible?

Personal pronouns will be shown in the following places:

  1. Faculty Profile
  2. Employee Directory
  3. Full Class Roster
  4. Brief Class Roster
  5. Custom/Photo Roster

Where can Pronouns be Updated on Personal Portal Pages?

All students and employees who wish to designate their personal pronouns may do so from the Hofstra Portal:

Step 1: Go to hofstra.edu
Step 2: Click on “MyHofstra” at the top of the screen
Step 3: Click on “Personal Services”
Step 4: Click on “Personal Pronoun”
Step 5: Click “Edit”
Step 6: Select your pronouns
Step 7: Click “Update”

Tips

To signal an inclusive environment…

  • When introducing yourself include your identifying pronouns.
  • Add your pronouns to email signatures, business card, nametags, etc.
  • Take initiative. Learn more about the LGBTQ+ communities, terminology, and history.

University Resources

External Resources