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At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln we believe that addressing everyone respectfully is critical to a campus culture where "every person and every interaction matters." Interacting with others using correct names and pronouns is an important way to demonstrate that respect.
As a leader in classrooms and labs, faculty have the opportunity to use these tips to foster that culture of respect.
- Be conscious of your own beliefs and biases. In respectful classrooms and labs, words and actions matter.
- Become familiar with the university's chosen name policy.
- Ask students to fill out a document at the beginning of the semester that asks for their name, pronunciation, and pronouns.
- Strive to learn correct spellings and pronunciations of all students’ names.
- Consider including your pronouns to your email signature and on materials you provide to students.
- When talking about gender, say "people of all genders" or "all genders."
- Do not assume anyone's gender or cultural background.
- Be mindful of language that is broadly applicable to a person’s gender, for example, "you said," or “they said” as a default when someone has not shared their gender.
- It is important to understand that not all men and women are cisgender (i.e., their gender identity matches their sex assigned at birth).
Resources
Updated February 2026