ESBD_551815_1787236434634_RFP 717-27-701, Financial Planning and Advisory Services AC.pdf

Request for Proposals Page 1 of 28

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FINANCIAL PLANNING & ADVISORY

SERVICES

RFP # 717-27-701

DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTAL:

1:00 p.m., Central Standard Time, Tuesday, September 15, 2026

(Proposals received after the date and time specified will not be accepted)

Texas Southern University

PROCUREMENT SERVICES

Attn: Sceffers Ward 3100 Cleburne Street

Mack O. Hannah Hall, Suite 333 Houston, Texas 77004 - 4598

Request for Proposals Page 2 of 28

Table of Contents

Section 1 - General Information &

Requirements

1.1 General Information

1.2 Public Information

1.3 Contract Term

1.4 Clarifications and Interpretations

1.5 Submission of Proposals

1.6 Point-Of-Contact

1.7 Evaluation of Proposal

1.8 Owner’s Reservation of Rights

1.9 Acceptance of Evaluation Methodology

1.10 No Reimbursement for Costs

1.11 Pre-Submittal Facility Tour

1.12 Withdrawal or Modification

1.13 Ownership of Proposals

1.14 Validity Period

1.15 General Conditions

1.16 Vendor Performance

1.17 Pre-Submittal Meeting

Section 2 – Executive Summary, Project

Description, Scope and Budget

2.1 Historical Background

2.2 Mission Statement

2.3 Scope of Work

2.4 Deliverables

2.5 Solicitation Planning Schedule

Section 3 - Requirements for Proposal

3.1 Respondent’s Statement of

Qualifications and Availability to

Perform Financial Planning & Advisory

3.2 Respondent’s Ability to provide FP&A

services

3.3 Respondent’s Performance on Past

Representative Projects for FP&A

Services specifically for Higher

Education

3.3 Respondent’s Knowledge of Best

Practices for FP&A services specifically for Higher Education

3.5 Respondent’s Pricing and Delivery

Proposal

Section 4 - Format for Proposals

4.1 General Instructions

4.2 Page Size, Binding, Dividers and Tabs

4.3 Table of Contents

4.4 Pagination

Section 5 - Attachments to the RFP

5.1 Execution of Proposal (Exhibit A)

5.2 Executive Order GA-48 Compliance

Statement (Exhibit B)

5.3 VetHUB

5.4 House Bill 1295 (Certificate of Interested

Parties)

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Request for Proposal For FINANCIAL PLANNING AND ADVISORY SERVICES

SECTION 1 – GENERAL INFORMATION & REQUIREMENTS

1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION: Texas Southern University (“Owner”) is soliciting proposals

(“Proposals”) for selection of a firm to provide professional Financial Planning and Advisory Services, in accordance with the terms, conditions, and requirements set forth in this Request for Proposals. Owner will award a contract in Owner’s current form (the “Contract”) in strict compliance with the requirements of all applicable laws and regulations. The Contract contains not only the terms under which Owner will contract, but also references to laws affecting the contract, including laws governing procurement (including timing for payment), public information requests, certifications required of all contractors/vendors, etc. By submitting an RFP response, respondent are expressly consenting to the terms, conditions and provisions of the contract. To be considered for the award of the Contract, a Respondent must submit its Proposal in compliance with the requirements contained in this RFP. Failure to comply will result in disqualification of the Proposal and the Respondent.

1.1.1 This Request for Proposals (“RFP”) is the second step in a two-step process for selecting a firm for Financial

Planning and Advisory Services. The RFP provides the information necessary to prepare and submit

Proposals including fee proposals and general conditions prices. The Owner will rank the Respondents in the order that they provide the “best value” for the Owner based on the published selection criteria, RFP responses and on the ranking evaluations. Interviews of teams may follow the Owner’s option.

1.1.2 The “most” qualified respondents may be requested to attend an presentation/interview with the Owner to confirm their Proposal and answer additional questions. The Owner will then rank the remaining “most” qualified respondents in order to identify a “best value”. The presentations will be evaluated by the same evaluation team members. The scores from the RFP and presentations will be combined for a total score and final ranking.

1.2 PUBLIC INFORMATION: All information, documentation, and other materials submitted in response to this solicitation are considered non-confidential and/or non-proprietary and are subject to public disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 552.001, et seq.) after the solicitation is executed. Respondents are hereby notified that the Owner adheres to all statutes, court decisions, and opinions of the Texas Attorney General with respect to disclosure of RFP information.

1.2.1 Information in any tangible form which is submitted by respondents will be treated as confidential until such time as a contract is executed. After that time, the information may be disclosed to requestors under the

Texas Public Information Act, Chapter 552, Texas Government Code. If a respondent believes all or a portion of the information submitted is proprietary and confidential and should therefore be exempt from disclosure, they must clearly designate the specific item(s) as proprietary and confidential, and the proper statutory citation must be provided in each instance.

Further, Respondents are hereby notified that the Owner will be required to post any resultant contract from this RFP on the Internet website of Owner pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 2261.253 (a)(1).

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1.3 CONTRACT TERM. The term of this Contract will be an initial one (1) year term, with the option to renew for up to three (3) additional one (1) year renewal terms upon mutual written agreement of the parties. Any renewal or extension must be agreed upon in writing prior to the expiration of the then-current term.

Either party may terminate this Contract for convenience, without cause, upon providing the other party with thirty (30) calendar days’ prior written notice. Termination shall not relieve either party of any obligations incurred prior to the effective date of termination. The University shall only be responsible for payment for goods or services properly authorized and satisfactorily provided prior to the effective date of termination.

Contract terms will be finalized upon the completion of negotiations.

1.4 CLARIFICATIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS: Any clarifications or interpretations of this RFP that materially affect or change its requirements will be posted by the Owner as an addendum and sent directly to all respondents to this solicitation. It is the responsibility of all respondents to obtain this information in a timely manner. All such addenda issued by the Owner before the proposals are due as part of the RFP, and respondents shall acknowledge receipt of and incorporate each addendum in its Proposal.

1.4.1 All inquiries shall be submitted in writing (in Word format) via email to Mr. Sceffers Ward at and

Sceffers.Ward@tsu.edu by 12:00 noon Central time on Monday, August 31, 2026; the date listed as the deadline for submission of questions as specified in Section 2.5 below.

1.4.2 Respondents shall consider only those clarifications and interpretations that the Owner issues by addenda prior to the submittal deadline. Interpretations or clarifications in any other form, including oral statements, will not be binding on the Owner and should not be relied on in preparing Proposals.

1.5 SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS: The Owner will receive Proposals at the time and location described below.

1:00 p.m., Central time, Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Physical Address for Courier Delivery:

TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

3100 CLEBURNE STREET

HANNAH HALL SUITE 333

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77004 - 4598

ATTN: SCEFFERS WARD

Responses should be delivered to one of two locations: the TSU Post Office or Hannah Hall Suite 333, 3100 Cleburne St, Houston, TX 77004

Texas Southern University Post-Office. You may find the exact location for the Post Office (Bldg. #106_PO) on the campus map.

http://www.tsu.edu/about/campus/pdf/tsu-campus-map.pdf

The submittal s should be packaged tightly with a business card affixed. A TSU representative will be in place to monitor the deliveries the day of the closing.

1.5.1 Respondent must submit one (1) original and one (1) PDF copy on a flash drive.

mailto:Sceffers.Ward@tsu.edu http://www.tsu.edu/about/campus/pdf/tsu-campus-map.pdf

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1.5.2 Late received Proposals will be returned to the respondent unopened.

1.5.3 The Owner will not acknowledge or receive Proposals that are delivered by telephone, facsimile (fax), or electronic mail (e-mail).

1.5.4 Properly submitted Proposals will not be returned to respondents.

1.5.5 Proposal materials must be enclosed in a sealed envelope (box or container) addressed to the Point-of-

Contact person; the package must clearly identify the submittal deadline, the RFP number, and the name and return address of the respondent.

1.5.6 All properly submitted Proposals will be publicly opened and the names of the respondents and any prices required to be submitted in the Proposals will be read aloud.

1.6 POINT-OF-CONTACT: The Owner designates the following person, as its representative and Point-of-Contact for this RFP. Respondents shall restrict all contact with the Owner and direct all questions regarding this RFP, including questions regarding terms and conditions, to the Point-of-Contact person.

Sceffers Ward

3100 Cleburne Street

Houston, Texas 77004 - 4598 e-mail: sceffers.ward@tsu.edu

1.7 EVALUATION OF PROPOSAL: The evaluation of the Proposals shall be based on the Respondent’s responses to the Criterion in Section 3 as described in this RFP. All properly submitted Proposals will be reviewed, evaluated, and ranked by the Owner.

1.8 OWNER’S RESERVATION OF RIGHTS: The Owner may evaluate the Proposals based on the anticipated completion of all or any portion of the Project. The Owner reserves the right to divide the Project into multiple parts, to reject any and all Proposals and re-solicit for new Proposals, or to reject any and all Proposals and temporarily or permanently abandon the Project. Owner makes no representations, written or oral, that it will enter into any form of agreement with any respondent to this RFP for any project and no such representation is intended or should be construed by the issuance of this RFP.

1.9 ACCEPTANCE OF EVALUATION METHODOLOGY: By submitting its Proposal in response to this RFP, respondent accepts the evaluation process and acknowledges and accepts that determination of the “best value” firm will require subjective judgments by the Owner.

1.10 NO REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS: Respondent acknowledges and accepts that any costs incurred from the respondent’s participation in this RFP shall be at the sole risk and responsibility of the respondent.

1.11 COMPLETENESS OF PROPOSAL: Respondent should carefully read the information contained herein. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to submit a complete response to all requirements and questions.

Proposals which are qualified with conditional clauses, or alterations, or items not called for in the RFP documents, or irregularities of any kind are subject to disqualification at the option of the Owner.

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Each Proposal should be prepared simply and economically, providing a straightforward, concise description of the firm’s ability to meet the requirements of the RFP. Emphasis should be on completeness, clarity of content, responsiveness to the requirements, and an understanding of the Owner’s needs.

Failure to comply with the requirements contained in this RFP may cause rejection of the Proposal.

The Owner will not acknowledge or receive Proposals that are delivered by telephone, facsimile (fax), or electronic mail (e-mail).

1.12 WITHDRAWL OR MODIFICATION: A Proposal may be withdrawn and resubmitted any time prior to the time set for receipt of Proposals. No Proposal may be changed, amended, or modified after the submittal deadline. No Proposal may be withdrawn after the submittal deadline without approval by the Owner which shall be based on Respondent’s written request stating reasons for withdrawing the proposal that are acceptable, in the Owner’s opinion.

1.13 OWNERSHIP OF PROPOSAL: Proposals and any other information submitted by Respondents shall become the property of Texas Southern University (the Owner).

1.14 VALIDITY PERIOD: Proposals are to be valid for the Owner’s acceptance for a minimum of 90 days from the submittal deadline date to allow time for evaluation and selection. A Proposal, if accepted, shall remain valid for the life of the Contracts resulting from this selection process.

1.15 GENERAL CONDITIONS: By signing and submitting a Proposal, Respondent certifies that any attached or referenced conditions or documents are applicable to this procurement only to the extent that they do not conflict with the statutes or Administrative Code of the State of Texas, or the advertised contract conditions, and that they do not impose additional requirements on the Owner. Respondent further certifies that the submission of a Proposal is Respondent’s good faith intent to contract with the Owner as specified herein and that such intent to contract is not contingent upon the Owner’s acceptance or execution of any such attached or referenced conditions, or other documents.

1.16 VENDOR PERFORMANCE: In accordance with Texas Government Code, 2155.074 and 2155.75, vendor performance may be used as a disqualification factor in the award. Vendor performance information on the

Controller of Public Accounts web site may be accessed at:

http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/vendor_performance/

TSU may conduct reference checks with other entities regarding past performance. In addition to evaluating performance through the Vendor Performance Tracking System (as authorized by 34 Texas Administrative

Code §20.108), TSU may examine other sources of vendor performance including, but not limited to, notices of termination, cure notices, assessments of liquidated damages, litigation, audit reports, and non-renewals of Contracts. Such sources of vendor performance may include any governmental entity, whether an agency or political subdivision of the State of Texas, another state, or the Federal government. Further, TSU may initiate such examinations of vendor performance based upon media reports. Any such investigations shall be at the sole discretion of TSU, and any negative findings, as determined by TSU, may result in non-award to the Respondent.

1.17 PRE-SUBMITTAL MEETING: A pre-submittal meeting will NOT be held.

End of Section 1 http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/vendor_performance/

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SECTION 2 – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY;

2.1 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: Since its founding in 1927, Texas Southern University ("TSU") has grown from a small junior college into a nationally recognized, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the nation's largest Historically Black Colleges and Universities ("HBCUs"), TSU is proud to be among only 13 HBCUs designated as a Doctoral University with High Research Activity (R2) by The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Building on this distinction, the University is strategically positioned to join the nation's trailblazing HBCUs in achieving the prestigious Carnegie R1 designation.

TSU's commitment to excellence extends beyond research and is reflected across every facet of university life. The University offers more than 120 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degree programs through its eleven colleges and schools. Located on more than 150 acres in Houston's historic Third

Ward, the campus serves as a center for academic achievement, innovation, leadership, and community engagement.

As the University approaches its centennial celebration, it continues to honor its rich legacy while boldly advancing its vision for the future. Today, TSU enrolls approximately 9,000 students. Guided by its Board-approved Strategic Plan (ASCEND 2030) and Campus Master Plan, the University has established ambitious enrollment goals of 10,000 students by Fall 2028 and 15,000 students by Fall 2030.

As Houston's first state-supported institution of higher education, Texas Southern University remains steadfast in its mission to transform lives through education. The Board of Regents, President, Administration, Faculty, and Staff are united in their commitment to student success and to preparing the next generation of leaders who will strengthen Texas, the nation, and the global community.

2.2 MISSION STATEMENT:

Texas Southern University is a comprehensive research, teaching, and public service institution whose mission is the advancement of knowledge and the pursuit of excellence. The University is committed to ensuring equality, by offering innovative programs that are responsive to its urban setting, and transforming diverse students into lifelong learners, engaged citizens, and creative leaders in their local, national, and global communities.

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2.3 SCOPE OF WORK: The Respondent shall provide qualified personnel and professional advisory services related to Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). Services may include all or portions of the following activities, as authorized by TSU.

2.3.1 Financial Planning and Forecasting:

• Assess the University's current financial planning and forecasting practices.

• Develop a rolling thirteen (13)-week cash flow forecast.

• Develop annual operating cash flow forecasts.

• Establish forecasting methodologies, planning assumptions, and forecast update cycles.

• Develop variance analysis methodologies to evaluate forecast performance.

• Develop financial forecasting documentation and user procedures.

• Provide training to designated University personnel responsible for maintaining forecasting models.

2.3.2 Long-Range Financial Modeling

• Develop integrated five-year and thirty-year financial planning models.

• Incorporate operating revenues, tuition and fee revenue, enrollment assumptions, state appropriations, grants and contracts, auxiliary operations, operating expenditures, compensation, capital investments, debt obligations, liquidity, and other material financial assumptions, as applicable.

• Develop baseline, optimistic, and adverse financial scenarios, including sensitivity analyses for key planning assumptions.

• Evaluate the long-term financial implications of strategic initiatives, capital investments, debt financing, enrollment changes, and other significant financial decisions.

• Develop documented methodologies and planning assumptions supporting the financial models.

• Deliver editable financial models, user documentation, and training to enable TSU personnel to maintain and update the models following completion of the engagement.

2.3.3 Budget and Capital Planning

• Evaluate current operating and capital budgeting practices.

• Develop standardized operating budget request templates.

• Develop business case templates to support funding requests and strategic initiatives.

• Develop Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) planning templates.

• Recommend financial planning methodologies for evaluating capital investments.

• Align budget development with institutional priorities, available funding, and long-term financial sustainability.

• Develop planning assumptions and documentation supporting the annual budget development process.

2.3.4 Financial Planning Framework

• Develop standardized financial planning methodologies and planning standards.

• Establish planning calendars and budget development timelines.

• Document planning assumptions and financial planning procedures.

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• Develop guidance for maintaining financial planning models and supporting documentation.

• Provide knowledge transfer, training, and implementation support to designated University personnel.

2.4 DELIVERABLES:

Workstream Required Deliverables

Financial Planning and Forecasting Rolling 13-week cash flow forecast; annual operating cash flow forecast; documented forecasting methodology; planning assumptions;

forecast update procedures; user documentation.

Long-Range Financial Modeling Integrated five-year and thirty-year financial planning models; scenario analyses; sensitivity analyses; documented methodologies; editable financial models; user guide; staff training.

Budget and Capital Planning Standardized operating budget request templates;

business case templates; Capital Improvement

Plan (CIP) planning templates; planning methodologies; supporting documentation.

Financial Planning Framework Financial planning methodologies; planning calendar; documented planning assumptions;

planning procedures; training materials; knowledge transfer documentation.

2.4.1 Expected Outcomes

• Standardized financial planning methodologies that support consistent financial planning across the

University.

• Operational thirteen (13)-week and annual cash flow forecasting capabilities.

• Integrated five-year and thirty-year financial planning models that support strategic, operational, and capital planning decisions.

• Standardized operating and capital budgeting processes supported by practical planning tools and templates.

• Enhanced financial analysis through scenario planning and sensitivity analysis.

• Documented financial planning methodologies, assumptions, and procedures that promote consistency and sustainability.

• Financial planning tools, models, templates, and documentation that can be independently maintained by TSU personnel.

• Knowledge transfer and training that enables the University to sustain and continuously improve its

Financial Planning and Analysis capabilities following completion of the engagement.

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2.5 Solicitation Planning Schedule: Solicitation planning schedule milestones are:

Owner issues Request for Proposals …………………….…….………8-20-2026 Owner conducts Mandatory Pre-Submittal Meeting …………………. N/A Respondent’s Written Inquiries due to TSU (12:00pm)…..………….. 8-31-2026 Owner receives Request for Proposals (1:00pm)……………….…9-15-2026 Owner interviews Respondents (if needed-estimated date)…………. TBD Owner executes Agreement ……………………………………………. TBD

End of Section 2

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SECTION 3 – REQUIREMENTS FOR PROPOSAL

Respondents shall carefully read the information contained in the following criteria and submit a complete response to all questions in Section 3 formatted as directed in Section 4. Incomplete responses will be considered non-responsive.

CRITERIA AND WEIGHT/VALUE: Proposals will be evaluated and ranked in accordance with the following:

Category Valu e

CRITERION 1: Offeror’s Statement of Qualifications and Availability to Provide Financial Planning & Advisory Services. Include Assigned Personnel and Roles.

CRITERION 2: Offeror’s Ability to provide FP&A Services 25

CRITERION 3: Offeror’s Performance on Past Representative Projects for FP&A Services Specifically for Higher Education

CRITERION 4: Offeror’s Knowledge of Best Practices for FP&A Services Specifically for Higher Education

CRITERION 5: Pricing 25

Total of Weighted Value 100

3.1 CRITERIA ONE: OFFEROR’S STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS AND AVAILABILITY TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL PLANNING AND ADVISORY SERVICES. INCLUDE ASSIGNED RESPONDENT’S PERSONNEL

AND ROLES:

3.1.1 Provide a statement of interest for services including a narrative describing the Offerors’ unique qualifications as they pertain to services in this RFP.

3.1.2 Indicate whether services will be provided in whole, or in part, by your firm. If certain services are to be provided by another firm, indicate your firm's business relationship (joint venture, consultant agreement, etc.) with the associated firm(s).

3.1.3 Provide a statement on the availability and commitment of the Offeror, its principal(s), and assigned professionals to undertake the services, including their geographical availability.

3.1.4 Provide a brief history of the Offeror and each consultant proposed for the services.

3.1.5 Provide the Offeror contact information and designated representative for this procurement process

3.1.6 Identify the key professionals that will be involved in providing Financial Planning and Advisory

Services and their likely roles. Specifically name the person who will support the oversight efforts with

Texas Southern University.

3.1.7 Provide resumes stating the experience, expertise, certifications of the professionals that will be involved in providing Financial Planning and Advisory Services, including their experience with similar tasks, the number of years with the firm, and their city of residence.

3.1.8 Indicate whether the Offeror intends to use consultants or sub-consultants in rendering professional services to the Owner. If so, indicate the roles of such consultants and describe the Offeror’s process in working with consultants and integrating them into the process of providing Financial Planning and

Advisory Services.

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3.1.9 Describe Respondent’s relevant experience and ability to perform services described in Section 2.3 of this RFP.

3.1.10 Clearly identify the members of the proposed team who worked on the listed services in Criteria 3.4 and describe their roles in those projects.

3.2 CRITERIA TWO: OFFERORS ABILITY TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL PLANNING AND ADVISORY SERVICES:

3.2.1 Provide the following information for the Firm:

• Legal name of the company as registered with the Secretary State of Texas,

• Address of the office that will be providing services,

• Number of years in business,

• Type of operation (Individual, Partnership, Corporation, Joint Venture, etc.),

• Number of employees by skill group, and

• Annual revenue totals for the past ten (10) years

3.2.2 Include a brief narrative of your firm’s history, current organizational structure including local, regional, and national offices, if applicable, and scope of services offered by your nearest company office.

3.2.3 Submit a current, audited financial statement of the firm, or include a statement indicating your firm’s agreement to submit an audited statement if selected.

3.2.4 Is your company currently for sale or involved in any transaction to expand or to become acquired by another business entity? If yes, please explain the impact both in organizational and directional terms.

3.2.5 Provide any details of all past or pending litigation or claims filed against your company that would affect your company's performance under a Contract with the Owner.

3.2.6 Provide details of any conditions that would adversely affect your company’s performance under a contract with the Owner.

3.2.7 Is your company currently in default on any loan agreement or financing agreement with any bank, financial institution, or other entity? If yes, specify date(s), details, circumstances, and prospects for resolution.

3.2.8 Does any relationship exist by relative, business associate, capital funding agreement, or any other such kinship between your firm and any Owner employee, officer, or Regent? If so, please explain.

3.2.9 Provide a claims history under professional malpractice insurance for the past five (5) years for the

Prime Firm and any team members proposed to provide services.

3.4 CRITERIA THREE: OFFERORS PERFORMANCE ON PAST REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS FOR FP&A

SERVICES SPECIFICALLY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION:

3.3.1 List a minimum of five (5) projects and/or programs for which Offeror has provided Financial

Planning and Advisory Services that are most closely related to these services described in this

RFQ and completed in the past ten (10) years, particularly project(s) for Texas Southern University or for another major public university. List the projects in order of priority, with the most relevant project first. Provide the following information for each project listed:

• Project Name or Client Program, location, contract delivery method, dates of services, and description of scope of services:

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• Name of project lead (individual responsible to the owner for the overall success of the services),

• Name of the Firm or Higher Education Entity or Public colleges and Universities

3.3.2 Provide current client references that can furnish information related to your firm’s and your staff’s performance on each project listed under Criteria 3.3.1, including;

• The Owner’s name and representative who served as the day-to-day liaison during all phases of the project, including telephone number and email address.

• Contractor’s name and representative who served as the day-to-day liaison during all phases of the service, including telephone number; and email address.

• Length of business relationship with the Owner.

3.3.3 References shall be considered relevant based on specific project participation and experience with the Offeror. The Owner may contact references during any part of this process. The Owner reserves the right to contact any other references at any time during the RFP and contracting process.

3.4 CRITERIA FOUR: OFFERORS KNOWLEDGE OF BEST PRACTICES:

3.4.1 Describe Respondent’s quality assurance program. Explain the methods used to ensure quality control during the performance of Financial Planning & Advisory Services, and documentation phases of the service. Provide specific examples of how these techniques or procedures were used from any five (5) projects listed in response to Section 3.3.1 or 3.3.3 of this RFP.

3.4.2 Describe Respondent’s philosophy, methodology, controls, and processes for successful management of cost and schedule.

3.4.3 Describe Respondent’s team demonstrated technical competence and management qualifications with institutional projects of financial planning and advisory services, particularly those for higher education.

3.4.4 Provide any other details regarding special services, processes, advantages, or other benefits offered to the Owner by the Respondent.

3.5 CRITERIA FIVE: REPONDENT’S PRICING PROPOSAL

Complete the “Pricing Proposal” Section.

Proposal of:

(Respondent’s Company Name)

To: Sceffers Ward

3100 Cleburne Street

Houston, TX 77004

Project Name: Financial Planning and Advisory Services

RFP No.: 717-26-701

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Having carefully examined all the requirements of the previously issued RFP, this RFP, the proposed form of

Agreement, and any attachments to them, the undersigned proposes to furnish Financial Planning and Advisory

Services as required on the following terms.

The fee proposal shall be a detailed fee proposal as outlined below. Failure to provide a fee proposal that addresses each of the items listed below may result in disqualification from the RFP process.

• Please thoroughly address all costs associated with deliverables and solutions you propose.

• All costs should be detailed and itemized, as well as providing a “grand total” so that a score can be assigned.

• All expected costs must be shown as you will not be able to bill the University for additional and/or hidden costs not directly addressed in your proposal response.

• Failure to provide a singular grand total when requested could be grounds for dismissal and/or disqualification of your response.

3.5.1 AWARD OF CONTRACT AND COMMENCEMENT OF SERVICES: The undersigned agrees to execute the Contract after notification that the Respondent has been identified by the Owner as the

Respondent with the “best value” Proposal, and to commence services on or before the commencement date stated by the Owner in a Notice to Proceed. The Owner reserves the right to accept or reject and all proposals and to waive proposal irregularities. Proposals shall be valid and not withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of opening thereof.

3.5.2 RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTLY AND CERTIFIED BY:

(Respondent’s Printed Name) (Title)

(Authorized Signature) (Date)

( State of Texas Tax Account No.)

( Email Address.)

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3.5.3 ADDENDA: Receipt is hereby acknowledged of the following addenda to this RFP (initial if applicable).

No. 1 _____ No. 2 _____ No. 3 _____ No. 4 _____ No. 5 _____ No. 6 _____

End of Section 3

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SECTION 4 – FORMAT OF PROPOSALS

4.1 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

4.1.1 Proposals shall be prepared SIMPLY AND ECONOMICALLY, providing a straightforward, CONCISE description of the respondent's ability to meet the requirements of this RFP. Emphasis shall be on the

QUALITY, completeness, clarity of content, responsiveness to the requirements, and an understanding of

Owner's needs.

4.1.2 Proposals shall be a MAXIMUM OF THIRTY (30) PRINTED PAGES. The cover, table of contents, divider sheets, Pricing and Delivery Proposal, and Execution of Offer do not count as printed pages. Please submit a flash drive version as well. Please ensure that your entire bid response is on the flash drive as this will be the official version of your bid response, and it will be the only copy we keep on file.

4.1.3 Respondents shall carefully read the information contained in this RFP and submit a complete response to all requirements and questions as directed. Incomplete Proposals will be considered non-responsive and subject to rejection.

4.1.4 Proposals and any other information submitted by respondents in response to this RFP shall become the property of the Owner.

4.1.5 Proposals that are qualified with conditional clauses, alterations, items not called for in the RFP documents, or irregularities of any kind are subject to rejection by the Owner, at its option.

4.1.6 The Owner makes no representations of any kind that an award will be made as a result of this RFP. The

Owner reserves the right to accept or reject any or all Proposals , waive any formalities or minor technical inconsistencies, or delete any item/requirements from this RFP when deemed to be in Owner's best interest.

4.1.7 Proposals shall consist of answers to questions identified in Section 3 of the RFP. It is not necessary to repeat the question in the Proposals; however, it is essential to reference the question number with the corresponding answer.

4.1.8 Failure to comply with all requirements contained in this Request for Proposals may result in the rejection of the Proposals.

4.2 PAGE SIZE, BINDING, DIVIDERS, AND TABS:

4.2.1 Proposals shall be printed on letter-size (8-1/2” x 11”) paper and assembled with spiral-type bindings or staples. DO NOT USE METAL-RING HARD COVER BINDERS.

4.2.2 Additional attachments shall NOT be included with the Proposals. Only the responses provided by the

Respondent to the questions identified in Section 3 of this RFP will be used by the Owner for evaluation.

4.2.3 Separate and identify each criteria response to Section 3 of this RFP by use of a divider sheet with an integral tab for ready reference.

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4.3 TABLE OF CONTENTS:

4.3.1 Submittals shall include a “Table of Contents” and give page numbers for each part the Proposal.

4.4 PAGINATION:

4.4.1 Number all pages of the submittal sequentially using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.).

End of Section 4

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SECTION 5 – EXECUTION OF OFFER, EXHIBITS AND ATTACHMENTS

5.1 Execution of Proposal – Exhibit A (MUST BE SIGNED)

5.2 Executive Order GA-48 Compliance Statement (Higher Education) – Exhibit B (MUST BE SIGNED)

5.3 VETHUB – Exhibit C separate attachment (MUST ACCOMPANY SUBMITTAL)

5.4 House Bill 1295 (Certificate of Interested Parties)

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EXHIBIT A

EXECUTION OF PROPOSAL

NOTE: THIS EXHIBIT MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED WITH THE PROPOSAL.

PROPOSALS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THIS EXHIBIT WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. THE

PROPOSAL SHALL BE VOID IF FALSE STATEMENTS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT.

By signature hereon, Respondent certifies that:

All statements and information prepared and submitted in the response to this RFP are current, complete, and accurate.

Respondent has not given, offered to give, nor intends to give at any time hereafter, any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor, or service to a public servant in connection with the submitted response.

Neither Respondent nor the corporation, partnership, or institution represented by Respondent or anyone acting for such respondent, corporation, or institution has (1) violated the antitrust laws of the State of Texas under Texas Business & Commerce Code, Chapter 15, or the federal antitrust laws; or (2) communicated the contents of this Proposal either directly or indirectly to any competitor or any other person engaged in the same line of business during the procurement process for this RFP.

When a Texas business address shown hereon that address is, in fact, the legal business address of Respondent and Respondent qualifies as a Texas Resident Bidder under 1 TAC § 111.2.

Under Government Code § 2155.004, no person who prepared the specifications or this RFP has any financial interest in Respondent’s Proposal. If Respondent is not eligible, then any contract resulting from this RFP shall be immediately terminated. Furthermore, “under Section 2155.004, Government Code, the vendor

[Respondent] certifies that the individual or business entity named in this Proposal or contract is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that this contract May be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.”

Under Family Code § 231.006, relating to child support obligations, Respondent and any other individual or business entity named in this solicitation are eligible to receive the specified payment and acknowledge that this contract May be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

Under Government Code § 669.003, relating to contracting with an executive of a state agency, Respondent represents that no person who, in the past four years, served as an executive of the Texas Comptroller of

Public Accounts, Texas Southern University or any other state agency, was involved with or has any interest in this Proposal or any contract resulting from this RFP. If Respondent employs or has used the services of a former executive head of Texas Southern University or other state agency, then Respondent shall provide the following information: Name of former executive, name of state agency, date of separation from state agency, position with Respondent, and date of employment with Respondent. Respondent agrees that any payments due under this contract will be applied towards any debt, including but not limited to delinquent taxes and child support that is owed to the State of Texas

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Texas Southern University is federally mandated to adhere to the directions provided in the President’s

Executive Order (EO) 13224, Executive Order on Terrorist Financing – Blocking Property and

Prohibiting Transactions With Persons Who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or Support Terrorism, effective 9/24/2001 and any subsequent changes made to it via cross- referencing respondents/vendors with the Federal General Services Administration’s System for Award Management (SAM), https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ , which is inclusive of the United States Treasury’s Office of Foreign

Assets Control (OFAC) Specially Designated National (SDN) list.

Respondent certifies that the responding entity and its principals are eligible to participate in this transaction and have not been subjected to suspension, debarment, or similar ineligibility determined by any federal, state or local governmental entity and that Respondent is in compliance with the State of Texas statutes and rules relating to procurement and that Respondent is not listed on the federal government's terrorism watch list as described in Executive Order 13224. Entities ineligible for federal procurement are listed at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/

Under Section 2155.006(b) of the Texas Government Code, a state agency May not accept a Proposal or award a contract, including a contract for which purchasing authority is delegated to a state agency, that includes proposed financial participation by a person who, during the five- year period preceding the date of the Proposal or award, has been: (1) convicted of violating a federal law in connection with a contract awarded by the federal government for relief, recovery, or reconstruction efforts as a result of Hurricane Rita, as defined by Section 39.459, Utilities Code, Hurricane Katrina, or any other disaster occurring after

September 24, 2005; or (2) assessed a penalty in a federal civil or administrative enforcement action in connection with a contract awarded by the federal government for relief, recovery, or reconstruction efforts as a result of Hurricane Rita, as defined by Section 39.459, Utilities Code, Hurricane Katrina, or any other disaster occurring after September 24, 2005. Under Section 2155.006 of the Texas Government Code, the respondent certifies that the individual or business entity named in this Proposal is not ineligible to receive the specified contract and acknowledges that any contract resulting from this RFP May be terminated and payment withheld if this certification is inaccurate.

Pursuant to Section 2262.003 of the Texas Government Code, the state auditor May conduct an audit or investigation of the vendor or any other entity or person receiving funds from the state directly under this contract or indirectly through a subcontract under this contract. The acceptance of funds by the Respondent or any other entity or person directly under this contract or indirectly through a subcontract under this contract acts as acceptance of the authority of the state auditor, under the direction of the legislative audit committee, to conduct an audit or investigation in connection with those funds. Under the direction of the legislative audit committee, the Respondent or other entity that is the subject of an audit or investigation by the state auditor must provide the state auditor with access to any information the state auditor considers relevant to the investigation or audit. Respondent will ensure that this clause concerning the authority to audit funds received indirectly by subcontractors through the vendor and the requirement to cooperate is included in any subcontract it awards.

The Respondent represents that, to the extent this Solicitation constitutes a contract for goods or services within the meaning of Section 2270.002 of the Texas Government Code, as amended, solely for purposes of compliance with Chapter 2270 of the Texas Government Code, and subject to applicable Federal law, Respondent (1) does not boycott Israel; and (2) will not boycott Israel during the term of this Agreement.

The term “boycott Israel” as used in this paragraph has the meaning assigned to it in Section 808.001 of the

Texas Government Code, as amended.

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PREFERENCES

See Section 2.38 of the State of Texas Procurement Manual regarding preferences. Check below to claim a preference under 34 TAC Rule 20.38

( ) Supplies, materials, or equipment produced in TX or offered by TX bidder or TX bidder that is owned by a service-disabled veteran * ( ) Agricultural products produced or grown in TX

( ) Agricultural products and services offered by TX bidders*

( ) USA produced supplies, materials, or equipment ( ) Products of persons with mental or physical disabilities

( ) Products made of recycled, remanufactured, or environmentally sensitive materials including recycled steel ( ) Energy Efficient Products

( ) Rubberized Asphalt paving material

( ) Recycled motor oil and lubricants

( ) Products produced at facilities located on formerly contaminated property

( ) Products and services from economically depressed or blighted areas ( ) Vendors that meet or exceed air quality standards

( ) Recycled or Reused Computer Equipment of Other

Manufacturers

( ) Foods of Higher Nutritional Value

Respondent represents and warrants that the individual signing this Execution of

Offer is authorized to sign this document on behalf of Respondent and to bind

Respondent under any contract resulting from this Proposal.

RESPONDENT (COMPANY):

SIGNATURE

NAME (TYPED/PRINTED)

TITLE:

EMAIL ADDRESS:

PHYSICAL ADDRESS:

CITY/STATE/ZIP:

TELEPHONE:

FAX:

TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER:

DATE:

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End of Exhibit A

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EXHIBIT B

Executive Order GA-48 Compliance Statement (Higher Education)

NOTE: THIS EXHIBIT MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED WITH THE

PROPOSAL. PROPOSALS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THIS EXHIBIT

WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. THE PROPOSAL SHALL BE VOID IF

FALSE STATEMENTS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS EXHIBIT.

Pursuant to Executive Order GA-48 issued by Greg Abbott, Respondent affirms its understanding of and commitment to comply with all applicable requirements related to foreign adversary restrictions as they apply to public institutions of higher education.

Respondent certifies that it is not owned by, controlled by, or affiliated with any entity identified as a foreign adversary and does not participate in prohibited foreign talent recruitment programs or restricted research collaborations. Respondent further certifies that it does not receive funding, contractual support, or other resources from prohibited foreign sources that would conflict with the requirements of this Executive

Order.

In support of institutional research security and academic integrity, Respondent agrees to fully disclose any foreign affiliations, partnerships, funding sources, or collaborative arrangements that may involve foreign entities. This includes, but is not limited to, research sponsorships, joint academic programs, data-sharing agreements, and subcontracting relationships.

Respondent acknowledges that any resulting agreement may be subject to enhanced compliance measures, including review of research activities, data access limitations, export control considerations, and restrictions on the use of certain technologies, equipment, or personnel connected to foreign adversaries.

Respondent further agrees to comply with all institutional policies related to international travel, remote work conducted outside the United States, and access to university systems or sensitive data, where applicable to the services provided.

Failure to comply with the provisions of Executive Order GA-48 and applicable institutional policies may result in disqualification from the solicitation process, contract termination, and/or other remedies available under law.

Vendor Certification – Executive Order GA-48 Compliance

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The Respondent must complete the following certification. Failure to complete this section may result in disqualification.

☐ Certified Compliant

Respondent affirms that it is fully compliant with the requirements of Executive Order

GA-48 and has no prohibited affiliations, funding sources, or engagements.

☐ Disclosure Required

Respondent affirms compliance but has disclosed below any affiliations, funding sources, partnerships, or activities that may require review under GA-48.

☐ Non-Compliant

Respondent is unable to certify compliance with Executive Order GA-48.

If “Disclosure Required” is selected, provide details below (attach additional pages if necessary):

Authorized Representative Name:

Title:

Company Name:

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Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________

End of Exhibit B

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EXHIBIT C

Veteran Heroes United in Business (VetHUB) program

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has adopted amended Veteran Heroes United in Business (VetHUB) program rules at 34 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Sections

281-298. The new rules take effect May 12.

Through the regular rulemaking process, the Comptroller's office fully considered all public comments received regarding the proposed program changes. The rule changes are similar to the emergency rules in effect since Dec. 2, 2025. Included in the amended rules are substantive changes to 34 TAC 20.285 revising the subcontracting plan methods. No comments were received about this section.

The subcontracting plan has been simplified and narrowed to two methods: self-performing or good faith effort. Accounting for the narrower focus of the VetHUB program, prime contractors that will subcontract any work must now notify two certified vendors of each subcontracting opportunity. The requirement to notify trade/development centers has been removed. The seven business days notification and response period for potential subcontractors is unchanged. For self-performing vendors, the subcontracting plan can be completed on one page.

Under the amended 20.285.2(b)(1), state agency contract developers and agency coordinators should identify the probability of subcontracting opportunities for historically underutilized businesses for contracts with an expected value of $100,000 or more. If no certified VetHUBs can be identified to fulfill subcontracting opportunities — rendering the good faith effort ineffective — the agency should document that and not require a subcontracting plan.

The new subcontracting plan form has been posted to the Comptroller’s website and may be downloaded by agencies preparing upcoming solicitations. Agencies may, but are not required to, amend existing solicitations closing on or after May 12 to incorporate the new subcontracting plan.

The Texas Procurement and Contract Management Guide will be updated to reflect the rule changes in version 4.1. Questions about the VetHUB Program may be emailed to

VetHUBProgram@cpa.texas.gov https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcomptroller.texas.gov%2Fvethub%2F/1/0100019df3cfd792-12e140a3-fdd3-4182-ad2c-66c61254946c-000000/WFJf2u3PV0bFTiSAb-1Pp__mclQQHjO178jbRCtuUYU=452 https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcomptroller.texas.gov%2Fvethub%2F/1/0100019df3cfd792-12e140a3-fdd3-4182-ad2c-66c61254946c-000000/WFJf2u3PV0bFTiSAb-1Pp__mclQQHjO178jbRCtuUYU=452 https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Ftexas-sos.appianportalsgov.com%2Frules-and-meetings%3FrecordId=462291%26interface=VIEW_TEXAS_REGISTER_PREAMBLE_SUMMARY/1/0100019df3cfd792-12e140a3-fdd3-4182-ad2c-66c61254946c-000000/F55Xk1wmQGOkwggoZsU5uZPBewzZHUKIGeK7TiNtx4o=452 https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcomptroller.texas.gov%2Fvethub%2F/2/0100019df3cfd792-12e140a3-fdd3-4182-ad2c-66c61254946c-000000/IQbrsld1zqNTwteJQtBCBvOVVJEktrZnkq-pbNjArpk=452 https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcomptroller.texas.gov%2Fvethub%2F/2/0100019df3cfd792-12e140a3-fdd3-4182-ad2c-66c61254946c-000000/IQbrsld1zqNTwteJQtBCBvOVVJEktrZnkq-pbNjArpk=452…