JMU's New eID Format

All individuals at JMU are issued an electronic identification (known as an "eID") that serves as their username in JMU computer systems as well as the first part of their JMU email address. With the implementation of Okta in March, JMU changed the format of all eIDs issued to new individuals at JMU or to individuals who wish to change their eID (for example, due to a name change).

What changed?

The updated format is now randomized and not identifiable to the eID holder. New eIDs consist of a random string of numbers and letters that do not contain part of the individual's name.

Why did new eID formats change?

The change is part of a growing trend in the IT industry to eliminate personally identifiable usernames, a practice that helps protect an individual's accounts and an institution's data by making usernames difficult to guess.

How can I find someone's contact information if they have a new eID format?

1. Use the JMU Campus Directory. In the directory search bar, you can enter someone's name or part of their name and click the "Find" button. The system will then return everyone matching that name along with their contact details, including their email address. Students have an email address ending with @dukes.jmu.edu, while employees have an email address ending with @jmu.edu. You can use other details about the person, such as their department, to make sure you've found the correct individual. Please note that student email addresses cannot be located unless you click the "Log In" button at the top-right of the directory page.
2. Use Microsoft's Global Address List (GAL), which is available in the various forms of Microsoft Outlook (web, computer, mobile). For example, if you use Outlook Web Access at https://outlook.office.com, then you will notice a search bar at the top of the page. While you can enter names in this search bar, and it will return email addresses, a better search is available by first clicking the "People" icon, typically located on the left side of the page. After clicking the People icon, the search bar at the top of Outlook Web changes to a contact-only search. The search can be refined further by searching only the Default Global Address list. These search results will include email addresses along with full names, position titles, and department information that will help you ensure that you are contacting the right person.

Please remember that the IT Help Desk is always willing to assist with questions about the use of the directory, GAL, or any Microsoft product. Please feel free to reach out to us at (540)568-3555 or helpdesk@jmu.edu.