This information was posted on May 22, 2007, and will be updated periodically. Other questions? Ask boggsj@tristate.edu

Q. When and how did discussions for a name change begin?

A. The Board of Trustees and administration have been in discussion regarding a university name change for the past three years. Discussions began based on the belief that the institution’s identity is lost with a name that is vague, ambiguous, and geographical in nature.

 

Q. Why a name change?

A. There are currently 38 regions in the United States that use “Tri-State” as a reference to their geographical area. There are 19 universities and/or colleges in the world that refer to themselves as “TSU.” There are many more local and regional businesses using “Tri-State” as a name than years ago. The institution’s current name implies a state-funded institution, not a prestigious private university. Eighty-seven percent of 17-year-olds are now searching the Web for college information. We have too much to offer to simply “not be found” by college bound-students.

 

Q. What will the official name of the institution be?

A. The official name will be Trine University.

 

Q. When will the new name become effective?

A. The name will become effective August 1, 2008.

 

Q. Who makes this type of decision for the institution?

A. The Board of Trustees.

Q. Who else was involved with the decision to change the name?

A. A special task force comprised of faculty, staff, alumni, Board of Trustee members, and community leaders as well as discussions with the Alumni Board of Governors.

Q. Why name it after a benefactor or alumnus?

A. Benefactors and alumni have long been associated with private university names and re-namings. For example: Harvard, Rhodes, Purdue, Duke, Butler, Rutgers, Cornell, Taylor, and Yale, to name a few, have all honored an alumnus or significant donor in their name.

 

Q. Will there be a change in the school colors and/or mascot?

A. There will not be a change in the school colors. A new mascot is being considered and is under review. However, a final decision has not been made, and will be announced in the future.

Q. What about diplomas?

A. Any student affected during the transition can have the choice of names on their diplomas. They may also have one diploma reflecting each name. After June 1, 2009 all diplomas will reflect the new name.

Q. Can I get a diploma with the new name even though I graduated before the name became effective?

A. Yes. You can order a diploma, free of charge, after June 1, 2009 with the new name. If you want a new diploma, write, fax, or e-mail the registrar’s office at helmsingd@tristate.edu. Include your name, degree, and date of degree.

 

Q. What can I do to accept and help with the transition?

A. We hope you will share our enthusiasm for this latest chance to move the institution into the future. By allowing it to evolve, you show your loyalty and highest mark of respect and affection to this 123 year-old prominent, private institution. You give it a chance for redefinition and setting new and broader goals. We invite you to join us in honoring our past and embracing our future.