Change Default Email Address

Change Your Default Email Address to Your SMSU Email

When transferring between Minnesota State (MinnState) institutions, it is common for your email address from a previous institution to remain set as your default “From” address in Office 365.

This article explains how to update your default email address so messages you send come from your SMSU email address.

Before You Begin: Important Notes

  • If your primary contact email is already set to an address ending in @smsu.edu or @my.smsu.edu, no action is required.
  • Only one email address can be selected as your primary (default) email address.
  • The primary email address is the address that appears in the “From:” field when you send email.
  • All email addresses assigned to you at other MinnState institutions that use the shared Office 365 tenant will still deliver mail to the same inbox.
    • However, the default “From:” address must be selected manually using the steps below.
  • Changes may take up to 24 hours to take effect.

Change Your Default Email Address in Office 365

Step 1: Sign in to StarID Self Service

  1. Go to the StarID Self Service website:
    StarID Self Service
  2. Select Sign in to Profile.
  3. Sign in using your StarID (example: ab1234cd) and StarID password.

Step 2: Open Office 365 Contact Settings

  1. After signing in, select Office 365 Contact from the profile menu.
  2. Choose New Student Contact Card (or the available contact card option).

Step 3: Select Your SMSU Email Address

  1. Locate your SMSU email address and select it as your primary email.
    • Students: firstname.lastname@my.smsu.edu
    • Faculty/Staff: firstname.lastname@smsu.edu
  2. Save your changes.

This email address was assigned to you when you were admitted to or hired by SMSU.

What Happens Next

  • Your selected SMSU email address will become your default “From:” address.
  • Email sent to any of your other MinnState‑assigned addresses will continue to arrive in the same inbox.
  • The change will take effect within 24 hours.

Need Help?

If you are unable to complete these steps or have questions about your email settings, contact the Technology Resource Center (TRC) for assistance.

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