ESBD_File_335531_SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT-2023 - RFP.pdf

Stephen F. Austin State University RFP #SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT-2023

PROCUREMENT AND BUSINESS SERVICES

P. O. Box 13030

NACOGDOCHES, TX 75962

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP NUMBER

SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT-2023

PROPOSAL MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE:

5:00 PM, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

HAND DELIVER AND/OR

MAIL PROPOSAL TO: EXPRESS MAIL TO:

Stephen F. Austin State University Stephen F. Austin State University Procurement and Business Services Procurement and Business Services P. O. Box 13030, SFA Station 2102 Alumni Drive, Austin Bldg., Room 131 Nacogdoches, TX 75962-3030 Nacogdoches, TX 75962

Show RFP Number, Due Date and Time on Return Envelope

NOTE: PROPOSAL must be time stamped at Stephen F. Austin State University

Procurement and Property Services before the hour and date specified for receipt of proposal.

REFER INQUIRIES TO:

Lacey Bradshaw

Stephen F. Austin State University Procurement and Business Services

936.468.4412 email: Lacey.Bradshaw@sfasu.edu mailto:Lacey.Bradshaw@sfasu.edu

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY

Request for Proposal

Scholarship Assessment-2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 – INTRODUCTION

1.1 Scope of Proposal

1.2 Contract Term

1.3 SFA Information

1.4 Respondent Qualifications

1.5 Schedule of Events

1.6 Open Records

1.7 Historically Underutilized Businesses

1.8 Parking on Campus

1.9 Confidentiality

1.10 Group Purchasing Authority

1.11 Additional Terms and Conditions

Section 2 – STATEMENT OF WORK

2.1 Scope of Work

2.2 Detailed Intent and Scope

2.3 Insurance Requirements

Section 3 – INSTRUCTIONS TO RESPONDENTS

3.1 Contact Information

3.2 Submittal Deadline and Location

3.3 Submittal Instructions

3.4 Acceptance and Formation of Agreement

3.5 Evaluation Criteria

3.6 Proposal Format

EXHIBITS

Exhibit A Execution of Offer Exhibit B Acknowledgment of Addenda Exhibit C Financial Proposal Exhibit D Non-Collusion Affidavit Exhibit E Qualifications, Experience, and References Exhibit F SFASU Standard Contract Addendum Exhibit G HUB Subcontracting Plan (HUB)

Stephen F. Austin State University

EXHIBIT A RFP #SCHOLARSHIP ASSESSMENT-2023

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 SCOPE OF PROPOSAL

Stephen F. Austin State University, hereafter referred to as “SFA” or “the University”, is seeking proposals from qualified firms to advise the University on the effectiveness of the current institutional scholarship program. The consultant will work with University data to perform an econometric analysis to determine the mix of scholarship investments that will yield optimal enrollment and revenue tuition.

For the purposes of this request for proposal (RFP), the scholarship program is defined as the overall investment that SFA commits annually to manage and fund all institutional scholarships, waivers and tuition discounts as well as financial aid that SFA students receive from federal, state and private sources. The selected vendor will complete a study that includes a comprehensive review of the University’s scholarship program, policies and processes to determine what changes will yield improvements in the recruitment and retention of students that have potential to be successful at SFA and maximize net tuition revenue for the University.

The Services are more specifically described in Section 2 (“Statement of Work”) of this Request for Proposal (RFP).

1.2 CONTRACT TERM

This contract will begin after award as mutually agreed and upon executed agreement. The planned study start date is October 2023 for a period of one year with the option to renew for three (3) additional one year periods as mutually agreed.

1.3 SFA INFORMATION

Stephen F. Austin State University, the newest member of The University of Texas System, began a century ago as a teachers’ college in Texas’ oldest town, Nacogdoches. Today, it has grown into a regional institution comprising six colleges — business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, liberal and applied arts, and sciences and mathematics. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, SFA enrolls approximately 11,000 students while providing the academic breadth of a state university with the personalized attention of a private school. The main campus encompasses 421 acres that include 36 academic facilities, nine residence halls, and 68 acres of recreational trails that wind through its six gardens. The university offers more than 80 bachelor’s degrees, more than 40 master’s degrees and four doctoral degrees covering more than 120 areas of study. Learn more at sfasu.edu.

SFA provides graduate students traditional financial assistance through scholarships, state grants, work study programs, graduate assistantships, and student loans.

Fiscal Year 2022-23 student financial aid support totaled over $128 million. That total included loans of nearly $54 million, grants and scholarships of $58 million, and tuition and fee exemptions of $15 million.

SFA’s strategic, foundational goal is student enrollment growth. There is a renewed leadership commitment for integrated strategic marketing and enrollment management built upon enhanced public school district and community college relationships.

1.4 RESPONDENT QUALIFICATIONS

The University will give preference to those qualified vendors who meet the following qualifications:

• Significant experience in performing similar projects

• Possess the professionalism, and appropriate level of personnel and business capacity to conduct such a review for a large academic institution

• The extent to which the vendor’s experience meets the University’s needs

• The proposed timeline

• Milestones and deliverables

Respondents must possess sufficient resources and be able to furnish the University with evidence of their ability to perform and provide the service needs of SFA.

1.5 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS*

*DATE EVENT

September 7, 2023 Issuance of Request for Proposal September 20, 2023 by 12:00 PM Deadline for Questions

September 22, 2023 Question and Answer Addenda Document Posted, if any

September 28, 2022 by 5:00 PM Requests for Proposals Due September 29, 2023 until awarded

Evaluation of Proposals and Selection of Finalists and/or Negotiations

October 2023 Notification of Award

October 2023 Scope of Work to begin

January 15, 2024 Initial Review and Recommendations Report Submission

October 2024 Completion of Review and Report Submission

*Dates are tentative and subject to change.

1.6 OPEN RECORDS

SFA anticipates that the review of the proposals will be completed and awarded in October 2023. Due to the nature of the proposals, the parties understand the information exchanged in the negotiation process is confidential to the fullest extent permitted by law, and neither party will disclose such information to anyone other than representatives of the negotiating parties except as required by Texas law. Final awards and agreements, after all negotiations are completed, may be subject to open Additionally, state law requires each contract for the purchase of goods or services to be posted on the University’s website.

By entering into a contract with the University, the firm acknowledges and accepts the University will comply with all applicable laws regarding the public posting of contracts.

1.7 HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES (HUB)

SEE EXHIBIT F – HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN READ

CAREFULLY

Each respondent is required to make a good faith effort to subcontract with historically underutilized businesses and shall submit a HUB Subcontracting Plan using the HUB Subcontracting Plan documents provided in Exhibit F.

Stephen F. Austin State University is committed to making a good faith effort to increase business with historically underutilized businesses (HUBs) by contracting with HUBs either directly or indirectly through subcontracting opportunities. Respondents are encouraged to actively seek to subcontract or partner with HUBs in an effort to create an environment that actively acknowledges and values diversity.

The university has determined that subcontracting opportunities are probable under this contract.

The university’s HUB goal for this procurement is:

26.0% for Other Services

Each HUB subcontracting plan will be evaluated independently of the response.

If the HSP does not reflect a good faith effort to subcontract with HUBs, the entire response will be disqualified.

All questions regarding the HUB Subcontracting Plan may be directed to the Office of Procurement and Business Services, Lacey Bradshaw, 936-468-4412, Lacey.Bradshaw@sfasu.edu

Failure to submit the HUB Subcontracting Plan may disqualify the entire response from consideration

1.8 PARKING ON CAMPUS

All vehicles parked on the University campus must properly display a valid parking permit and comply with all University parking rules. The Parking and Traffic Office supervises and coordinates all parking transportation and traffic related functions on the campus. Permits expire each August 31.

Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining parking permits from the Parking and Traffic Office and for resolving, should they arise, any parking regulation disputes and violations. The Parking and Traffic Office telephone number is 936- 468-7275

1.9 CONFIDENTIALITY

Pursuant to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), every Service Provider

(Contractor), defined as any person or entity that receives, maintains, processes or otherwise is permitted access to nonpublic personal information as defined in 16 C.F.R. § 313.3(n), whether in paper, electronic, or other form, about a university employee or student through its provision of services directly to the university is subject to the following requirements:

a . The Service Provider (Contractor) must ensure the security and confidentiality of nonpublic personal information as defined in 16 C.F.R. § 313.3(n), protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security and integrity of such information and protect against unauthorized access to or use of such information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any university employee or student.

mailto:Lacey.Bradshaw@sfasu.edu

b. To the extent contractor is provided Stephen F. Austin State University employee or student information owned, possessed or used by Stephen F.

Austin State University and that is communicated to, learned, or otherwise acquired by Contractor in the performance of Contractor’s duties and obligations under this Agreement, Contractor, its management, employees and agents agree to keep such information confidential, beginning on the date Contractor is first given access to said data and continuing through the term of this Agreement and any time thereafter. Contractor, its employees and agents shall not disclose, communicate or divulge, or permit disclosure, communication or divulgence, to another or use for Contractor’s, its management’s, employees’ or agents’ own benefit or the benefit of another, any such confidential information, unless required by law. Contractor shall take appropriate safeguards to protect the data and limit access to such to only those representatives of Contractor that must have access for the purposes of this Agreement.

1.10 GROUP PURCHASING AUTHORITY

Texas law authorizes institutions of higher education (defined by Section 61.003, Education Code) to use the group purchasing procurement method (ref. Section 51.9335, Education Code). Additional Texas institutions of higher education may therefore elect to enter into a contract with the successful Proposer under this

RFP.

1.11 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/procurement-business-services/purchase-order-general-terms-conditions.pdf https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/procurement-business-services/purchase-order-general-terms-conditions.pdf https://www.sfasu.edu/docs/procurement-business-services/purchase-order-general-terms-conditions.pdf

SECTION 2

STATEMENT OF WORK

2.1 SCOPE OF WORK

The following are specifications for the work described in section 1.1 and detailed intent and scope described in section 2.2 of this RFP.

2.2 DETAILED INTENT AND SCOPE

1. What is the price sensitivity of SFA’s admit pool for financial aid purposes?

2. What are the appropriate award strategies and mix of awards SFA should use to maximize yield (enrollment and revenue) on the available dollars for the scholarship program while maintaining support for the University’s strategic goals?

3. How can SFA most effectively incorporate changes resulting from FAFSA simplification for 2024-2025 and following into institutional award strategy?

4. How does SFA’s investment in it’s scholarship program and price compare to benchmark competitors?

5. Is SFA affordable to both in and out-of-state students?

6. Evaluate the efficacy of the university’s dual credit commitment.

SFA’s objective is to work with the consultant to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the University’s financial aid and scholarship program. Working with the consultants, SFA seeks to achieve the following:

• Develop a predictive model to demonstrate how changes in award value and mix will impact enrollment and tuition revenue of both primary and targeted enrollment groups.

• Identify strategies that will:

o Increase potential yields or otherwise improve effectiveness of the University’s scholarship program.

o Improve processes used to market, manage and award scholarships, discounts and waivers.

o Improve alignment between the scholarship program and the strategic goals of the University.

o Provide for long-term consistency in the program to enhance relationships with students, parents and school personnel.

An initial review and recommendation report is requested by mid-January, 2024, to allow implementation of any recommended changes for Spring 2024 for 2024-2025 allocations.

The project should conclude with a report detailing recommendations for improving SFA’s existing financial aid and scholarship program strategies necessary to achieve targeted enrollment growth opportunities and maximize net tuition revenue.

Recommendations may include, but are not limited to, changes in the gross scholarship investment as well as changes to value and overall mix of awards, discounts and waivers. Changes in processes used to manage and market scholarship award program.

2.3 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor shall not commence work under this Contract until he has obtained all the insurance required hereunder and certificates of such insurance have been filed with and reviewed by SFASU. Acceptance of the Contractor.

If policies are not written for the amounts specified below (except Worker’s Compensation and Employer’s Liability), Contractor shall carry Excess Liability insurance for any difference in amounts specified. If Excess Liability insurance is provided, it shall follow the form of primary policy.

This insurance shall not be canceled, limited in scope of coverage, or non-renewed until after thirty (30) days prior written notice, or ten (10) days for non-payment of premium, has been given to the University.

Contractor’s insurance shall be deemed primary with respect to any insurance carried by Stephen F. Austin State University for liability arising out of operations under this Contract.

Stephen F. Austin State University, its officials, directors, employees, representatives and volunteers shall be named as additional insured. This is not applicable to the workers’ compensation policy.

The workers’ compensation and employers’ liability policy will provide a waiver of subrogation in favor of the University.

The workers’ compensation insurance coverage must include the responsibility of the Contractor to provide coverage for every worker either under the Contractor’s policy or under the policy provided by a subcontractor. The Contractor’s policy shall provide that, in the event that a subcontractor’s policy fails to provide worker’s compensation coverage of a worker, that such insurance coverage is provided by the Contractor’s policy.

Unless otherwise provided for herein, the Contractor shall provide and maintain, until the Work covered in this Contract is completed and accepted by the Owner, the minimum insurance coverage as follows:

INSURANCE

REQUIREMENTS

MINIMUM LIMITS

Workers’ Compensation (Statutory)

Statutory

Employer’s Liability $1,000,000 Each Occur/Aggregate

Commercial General Liability

$1,000,000 Each Occur $2,000,000 General Aggregate $2,000,000 Products/Completed Operations

Comprehensive Automobile Coverage

$1,000,000 Combined Single Limit NOTE: Required where a vehicle will be used on the premises. Coverage must include: All owned, leased, hired, non-owned and employee non-owned vehicles and, where applicable, Personal Injury Protection.

SECTION 3

INSTRUCTIONS TO RESPONDENTS

3.1 CONTACT INFORMATION

3.1.1 All questions regarding the RFP, or response must be forwarded to the Procurement and Business Services office:

Lacey Bradshaw P.O. Box 13030, SFA Station Nacogdoches, TX 75962 Phone: 936.468.4412 Fax: 936.468.4282 Email: Lacey.Bradshaw@sfasu.edu

3.2 SUBMITTAL DEADLINE AND LOCATION

3.2.1 All proposals must be received by SFA no later than 5:00 PM, Thursday, September 28, 2023.

3.2.2 Proposals are to be submitted to:

HAND DELIVER AND/OR

MAIL PROPOSAL TO: EXPRESS MAIL TO:

Stephen F. Austin State University Stephen F. Austin State University

Procurement and Business Services Procurement and Business Services P.O. Box 13030, SFA Station 2102 Alumni Drive, Austin Bldg., Room 131 Nacogdoches, TX 75962-3030 Nacogdoches, TX 75962

3.2.3 All U.S. Mail addressed to any component of SFA is delivered to a central mailroom and redistributed by SFA personnel to the addressee’s on-campus post office box.

Consequently, there is a possibility of delay between receipt of mail at the central mailroom and receipt in the Procurement and Property Services Department. Proposals must be in the office of the Procurement and Property Services Department by the time set for RFP closing in order to be considered, and receipt by SFA at the central mailroom will not be deemed sufficient. The University shall not be responsible for responses received after the due date and time. Late responses will not be considered under any circumstances. Properly identified late responses will be returned to the Respondent unopened.

3.2.4 Proposals will be publicly opened Friday, September 29, 2023 at 8:30am in the office of Procurement and Business Services, 2102 Alumni Drive, Austin Building, Room 131.

Only the names of the Respondents will be read aloud.

3.2.5 Proposals received after the time for closing will be returned to Respondent unopened regardless of the circumstance. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to get the proposals delivered in a timely manner, regardless of delivery method or circumstances.

3.2.6 Faxed or emailed proposals will not be accepted.

3.2.7 Proposals may be withdrawn at any time prior to the time and date set for proposal closing.

3.2.8 Stephen F. Austin State University reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive irregularities or technicalities provided such waiver does not substantially change the offer or provide a competitive advantage to any Respondent in the judgment of Stephen F. Austin State University.

3.3 SUBMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS

3.3.1 All proposals must be submitted in the format prescribed in Section 3.3.2.

3.3.2 Respondent shall submit one (1) complete electronic copy of the Proposal on electronic media (e.g., USB Drive) in a Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project and PowerPoint files) version 2003 or later format, or searchable Adobe .PDF files. .

Respondents shall divide the electronic copy into TWO (2) separate electronic files, one of which shall contain Respondent’s Qualifications, Exhibit E, and the other of which shall contain Exhibits A-D, Exhibit F, and respondent’s standard form of agreement.

3.3.3 All proposals must be complete and convey all of the information requested to be considered responsive. If the proposal fails to conform to the essential requirements of the RFP, SFA alone will determine whether the variance is significant enough to consider the proposal susceptible to being made acceptable and therefore a candidate for further consideration, or not susceptible to being made acceptable and therefore not considered for award.

3.3.4 Each respondent, by submitting a proposal, represents that the respondent has read and completely understands the request for proposal documents and agrees to abide by the terms of this RFP and any resulting agreement. Failure of the selected contractor to fulfill the provisions of this request for proposal shall in no way relieve the obligation of the Contractor to furnish all services necessary to carry out the provisions of the agreement.

3.3.5 Proposals shall be signed by a legally authorized representative of the Respondent.

Unsigned proposals (Exhibit A) will be rejected as a material failure.

3.4 ACCEPTANCE AND FORMATION OF AGREEMENT

3.4.1 No recommendation for award will be made until Stephen F. Austin State University is fully satisfied that the Respondent is professionally competent and properly equipped to render the specified service.

3.4.2 The University reserves the right to negotiate further with any respondent that submits a proposal, once proposals have been opened. SFA may award a contract(s) based on initial proposals received without any discussion of such proposals. Therefore, each proposal should be submitted on the most favorable and complete price and terms possible.

3.4.3 The University reserves the right to enter into an agreement not based only on the cost to the University, but which, in the sole opinion of SFA, is deemed to represent the best value to SFA. The university shall be the sole judge of determining which proposal represents the best value to the University.

3.4.4 By submitting a response, the Respondent agrees to accept an agreement including the scope of work and specifications herein and attached to this Request for Proposal.

3.5 EVALUATION CRITERIA

3.5.1 Award will be based on a comprehensive review and analysis based on a weighted value of averaged evaluation scores and negotiation of the proposal that best meets the needs of the university. Submission of a proposal represents concurrence with this method of evaluation and award. Furthermore, Respondents will not, under any circumstances, dispute any award made using this method.

3.5.2 Evaluation of the proposals will be performed by an evaluation committee representing

Stephen F. Austin State University. Proposals will be evaluated using the following criteria, which are listed below in Section 3.5.3. Stephen F. Austin State University reserves the right to award an agreement not based only on the cost to the University, but on the criteria that best meet the university's requirements and goals. The university shall be the sole judge of determining which proposal represents the best value to the university.

3.5.3 Evaluation Criteria

a. 25% - Qualifications and Experience;

b. 25% - Methodology used to conduct assessment and evaluation;

c. 15% - Timeline for providing the analysis and subsequent strategies;

d. 15% - Client references; and

e. 20% - Financial Proposal.

3.6 PROPOSAL FORMAT

3.6.1 Proposals shall be prepared in a straightforward and concise manner, identifying clearly and concisely any deviations, enhancements and other differences that exist between the RFP and the respondent’s proposed services. Emphasis should be placed on responsiveness to the RFP requirements, completeness and clarity of content and conformance to the RFP instructions. Respondents shall organize their proposal in a point-by-point format according to Section 3.6.2. Failure to follow point-by-point presentation could be grounds for disqualification.

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

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

3.6.2 Proposal shall include the following information and be submitted in the following order:

Failure to provide any of the following documents will result in disqualification of the proposal from further consideration

Required Submittals A. Exhibit A – Signed Execution Of Offer B. Exhibit B – Acknowledgement of Addenda, if any C. Exhibit C – Financial Proposal;

D. Exhibit D – Non-Collusion Affidavit E. Respondent's standard form of agreement, including all terms and conditions;

F. Exhibit E- Qualifications, Experience, and References G. Exhibit G - Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan

Stephen F. Austin State University reserves the right to check references prior to award. Any negative responses received may be grounds for disqualification of the bid. SFA reserves the right to enter into an agreement not based only on lowest cost to the University, but which, in the sole opinion of SFA, is deemed to represent the best value to SFA.

EXHIBIT A

EXECUTION OF OFFER

In compliance with this RFQ, and subject to all the conditions herein, the undersigned offers and agrees to furnish any or all commodities or services and to comply with all terms, conditions and requirements set forth in the RFQ documents and contained herein.

By signature hereon, Respondent affirms that he/she 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 Qualifications. Failure to sign the response, or signing it with a false statement, shall void the submitted response or any resulting contracts, and the Respondent may be removed from all bid lists.

By the signature hereon affixed, the Respondent hereby certifies that neither the Respondent nor the firm, corporation, partnership, or institution represented by the Respondent or anyone acting for such firm, corporation, or institution has violated the antitrust laws of this State or the Federal antitrust laws nor communicated directly or indirectly the response made to any competitor or any other person engaged in such line of business.

By signature hereon, Respondent certifies that if a Texas address is shown as the address of the Respondent, Respondent qualifies as a Texas Resident Bidder as defined in Rule 34 TAC 20.38.

Certifications:

Representations and Warranties by Respondent If Respondent is a corporation, limited liability company, or any other entity organized and existing under state law, Respondent warrants, represents, covenants, and agrees that it is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the state of its incorporation or organization and is duly authorized and in good standing to conduct business in the State of Texas, that it has all necessary power and has received all necessary approvals to execute and deliver the Agreement, and the individual signing the Agreement on behalf of the Respondent has been duly authorized to act for and bind Respondent.

Tax Certification If Respondent is a taxable entity as defined by Chapter 171, Texas Tax Code (“Chapter 171”), then Respondent certifies that it is not currently delinquent in the payment of any taxes due under Chapter 171, or that Respondent is exempt from the payment of those taxes, or that Respondent is an out-of-state taxable entity that is not subject to those taxes, whichever is applicable.

Eligibility to Receive Payment In accordance with Section 231.006 of the Texas Family Code and Sections 2155.004 and 2155.006 of the Texas Government Code, Respondent certifies that it is not ineligible to receive the Agreement or any payments under the Agreement and acknowledges that University may terminate the Agreement and/or withhold any payment and/or reimbursement if this certification is inaccurate.

Payment of Debt or Delinquency to the State Pursuant to Sections 2107.008 and 2252.903, Texas Government Code, Respondent agrees that any payments owing to Respondent under the Agreement may be applied directly toward any debt or delinquency that Respondent owes the State of Texas or any agency of the State of Texas regardless of when it arises, until such debt or delinquency is paid in full.

The person signing the Response should show title or authority to bind his/her firm in contract.

Federal Employer’s Identification Number:

Sole Owner should also enter Social Security No.:

Respondent/Company:

Signature (INK):

Name (Typed/Printed):

Title:

Street:

City/State/Zip:

Telephone No/Fax No:

Email.:

THIS SHEET MUST BE COMPLETED, SIGNED, AND RETURNED WITH RESPONDENT'S RESPONSE. FAILURE TO

SIGN AND RETURN THIS SHEET MAY RESULT IN THE REJECTION OF YOUR RESPONSE.

EXHIBIT B

EXHIBIT B

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ADDENDA

Receipt is hereby acknowledged of the following addenda to this RFP.

Addenda No. Dated

Respondent/Company:

Refer to the SFA Procurement and Property Services Department website to confirm all addenda issued: http://www.sfasu.edu/purchasing/122.asp http://www.sfasu.edu/purchasing/122.asp

EXHIBIT C

EXHIBIT C

FINANCIAL PROPOSAL

Having carefully reviewed the specifications and related documents affecting the proposal to provide an evaluation and study to assess the effectiveness of the scholarship program for Stephen F. Austin State University, the undersigned submits the following Financial Proposal in accordance with the Request for Proposal documents:

Respondent Name:

Authorized Signature:

A. Pricing for Services Offered

Evaluation and Review of Financial Aid and Scholarship Program $________________________

[includes all time, labor, materials, and reimbursable expenses

(travel, lodging, parking fees, etc.) necessary to complete Services]

B. Proposed Timeline for Conducting Study # of months: _____________________

EXHIBIT D

EXHIBIT D

NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

The undersigned, duly authorized to represent the persons, firms and corporations joining and participating in the submission of the foregoing Proposal (such persons, firms and corporations hereinafter being referred to as the “Respondents”), being duly sworn, on his or her oath, states that to the best of his or her belief and knowledge no person, firm or corporation, nor any person duly representing the same joining and participating in the submission of the foregoing Proposal, has directly or indirectly entered into any agreement or arrangement with any other Respondent, or with any official of SFA or any employee thereof, or any person, firm or corporation under contract with SFA whereby the Respondent, in order to induce acceptance of the foregoing Proposal by said SFA, has paid or is to pay to any other Respondent or to any of the aforementioned persons anything of value whatsoever, and that the Respondent has not, directly or indirectly entered into any arrangement or agreement with any other Respondent or Respondent which tends to or does lessen or destroy free competition in the letting of the contract sought for by the foregoing Proposal.

The Respondent hereby certifies that neither it, its officers, partners, owners, providers, representatives, employees and/or parties in interest, including the affiant, have in any way colluded, conspired, connived or agreed, directly or indirectly, with any other Respondent, potential Respondent, firm or person, in connection with this solicitation, to submit a collusive or sham bid, to refrain from bidding, to manipulate or ascertain the price(s) of other Respondents or potential Respondents, or to obtain through any unlawful act an advantage over other Respondents or SFA.

The prices submitted herein have been arrived at in an entirely independent and lawful manner by the Respondent without consultation with other Respondents or potential Respondents or foreknowledge of the prices to be submitted in response to this solicitation by other Respondents or potential Respondents on the part of the Respondent, its officers, partners, owners, providers, representatives, employees or parties in interest including the affiant.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The undersigned Respondent and each person signing on behalf of the Respondent certifies, and in the case of a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, each party thereto certifies as to its own organization, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of their knowledge and belief, no member of SFA, nor any member of its Board of Regents, employee, or person whose salary is payable in whole or in part by SFA, has a direct or indirect financial interest in the award of the Proposal, or in the services to which this Proposal relates, or any of the profits, real or potential, thereof, except as noted otherwise herein.

Signature _____________________________________________

Company name ________________________________________

Date______________________

EXHIBIT E

EXHIBIT E – QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND

REFERENCES

1. An overview of your firm and its demonstrated expertise and experience related to requested services for assessment of scholarship program.

2. Company Profile to include resumes on personnel that will be working on this project and their education and experience;

3. Provide a detailed technical proposal to include proposed method of performing the service, staffing levels, system capabilities, philosophy and methodology used in the development and implementation of the requested services, and anticipated SFA staff assistance, support and resources required for requested services;

4. Provide detailed timeline for conducting the scholarship analysis and any subsequent strategies.

5. List the total number of scholarship assessment studies conducted with institutions of higher learning;

6. Provide a minimum of five (5) references from state/regional peer universities for which Respondent has conducted similar studies within the last five years. At a minimum, include institution name, contact name, telephone number, email address, length of business relationship, project description, and summary of work performed;

7. Provide brief summary detailing the attributes that make your firm the ideal choice for SFA and better than other firms we could select.

8. Please note exceptions, if any, to SFA’s standard contract addendum as referenced in Exhibit F.

9. Provide a point by point acknowledgement and/or agreement with Sections 2.1 through 2.3 related to statement of work.

EXHIBIT F

EXHIBIT F- SFASU STANDARD CONTRACT

ADDENDUM

OGC Rev. 04/2022 Page 1 of 6

STANDARD CONTRACT ADDENDUM

This Standard Contract Addendum (“Addendum”) is between Stephen F. Austin State University (“University”) and the party represented in the signature block below (“Contracting Party”) and is incorporated by reference into the attached Agreement and all addendums, attachments, and exhibits thereto, numbered iContracts ######, between University and Contracting Party (the “Agreement”). Notwithstanding anything in the Agreement to the contrary, if there is any conflict or contradiction between the provisions of the Agreement and those in this Addendum, this Addendum will control and supersede all conflicting provisions, and Contracting Party waives any claim to the contrary.

1. Payment Terms. Payment terms for amounts due from University to Contracting Party under this Agreement (including but not limited to due dates, late fees, and interest) are governed by Chapter 2251 of the Texas Government Code.

University is not responsible for the payment of collection costs or attorney’s fees unless explicitly required by law.

2. Representations and Warranties by Contracting Party. If Contracting Party is a corporation, limited liability company, or any other entity organized and existing under state law, Contracting Party warrants, represents, covenants, and agrees that it is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the state of its incorporation or organization and is duly authorized and in good standing to conduct business in the State of Texas, that it has all necessary power and has received all necessary approvals to execute and deliver this Agreement, and the individual executing this Agreement on behalf of Contracting Party has been duly authorized to act for and bind Contracting Party.

3. Tax Certification. If Contracting Party is a taxable entity as defined by Chapter 171, Texas Tax Code (“Chapter 171”), then Contracting Party certifies that it is not currently delinquent in the payment of any taxes due under Chapter 171, or that Contracting Party is exempt from the payment of those taxes, or that Contracting Party is an out-of-state taxable entity that is not subject to those taxes, whichever is applicable.

4. Eligibility to Receive Payment. In accordance with Section 231.006 of the Texas Family Code and Sections 2155.004 and 2155.006 of the Texas Government Code, Contracting Party certifies that it is not ineligible to receive this Agreement or any payments under this Agreement and acknowledges that University may terminate this Agreement and/or withhold payment and/or reimbursement if this certification is inaccurate.

5. Payment of Debt or Delinquency to the State. Pursuant to Sections 2107.008 and 2252.903, Texas Government Code, Contracting Party agrees that any payments owing to Contracting Party under this Agreement may be applied directly toward any debt or delinquency that Contracting Party owes the State of Texas or any agency of the State of Texas regardless of when it arises, until such debt or delinquency is paid in full.

6. Conflict of Interest. Contracting Party and each person signing on behalf of Contracting Party certifies, and in the case of a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, each party thereto certifies as to its own organization, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of their knowledge and belief, no member of University’s Board of Regents, nor any employee or person, whose salary is payable in whole or in part by University, has direct or indirect financial interest in the award of this Agreement, or in the services to which this Agreement relates, or in any of the profits, real or potential, thereof.

7. Products and Materials Produced in Texas. If Contracting Party will provide services under this Agreement, Contracting Party covenants and agrees that in accordance with Section 2155.4441, Texas Government Code, in performing its duties and obligations under this Agreement, Contracting Party will purchase products and materials produced in Texas when such products and materials are available at a price and delivery time comparable to products and materials produced outside of Texas.

8. Tax Exemption. University is exempt from the payment of taxes and will provide necessary documentation confirming its tax-exempt status.

9. Travel Expenses. If this Agreement requires University to reimburse Contracting Party for travel expenses, Contracting Party shall invoice all requests for reimbursement in accordance with the State of Texas travel, meal and lodging reimbursement guidelines and limitations applicable to State of Texas employees.

10. Delivery, Title, and Risk of Loss. All work performed by Contracting Party pursuant to this Agreement will be at Contracting Party’s exclusive risk until final and complete acceptance of the work by University. In the case of any loss or damage to the goods or work prior to University’s acceptance, such loss or damage will be Contracting Party’s responsibility. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing, Contracting Party shall arrange and pay for all shipping charges, transit insurance, taxes, and custom charges and any fees and duties in connection with shipment of goods. Delivery of any goods to University pursuant to this Agreement must be FOB destination. Contracting Party shall hold title to and risk of loss of goods under this Agreement, including during tender to carrier until final delivery to University, at which time title and risk of loss and damage to goods shall transfer to University.

11. Insurance. University is insured for general liability insurance under a statewide program managed by the Texas State Office of Risk Management. Such insurance will satisfy any University insurance obligations in this Agreement, OGC Rev. 04/2022 Page 2 of 6 regardless of the type of coverage required. For the entire term of this Agreement (“Term”), Contracting Party shall maintain Comprehensive General Liability insurance coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence. If, during the Term, Contracting Party will enter property owned or controlled by the University, Contracting Party shall also maintain the following insurance: (i) Worker’s Compensation coverage with statutory limits for the State of Texas, including Employers Liability coverage of $1,000,000 per accident and per employee; and (ii) Commercial Automobile Liability coverage of $1,000,000 Combined Single Limit; (iii) for engineers and architects only: Professional Liability coverage of $5,000,000 per occurrence; and (iv) for builders only: Builder’s Risk all-risk coverage ending at final completion in the amount of the construction cost, including protection against named windstorm and flood. Risk of loss of any portion of the Project shall remain with Contracting Party unless and until such portion of the Project passes into the exclusive possession and control of University. All policies must contain a waiver of subrogation against University.

Comprehensive General Liability and Commercial Automobile Liability policies must name University as Additional Insured and must include an endorsement to the policy that expressly extends coverage to University as an Additional Insured. All policies required to be maintained by Contracting Party under this Agreement shall be primary and noncontributory to any other insurance, self-insurance, or risk pooling arrangement maintained by University.

Contracting Party shall pay all insurance deductibles and deductibles must not exceed $10,000 unless approved in advance by University. Contracting Party shall provide University Certificates of Insurance evidencing these insurance requirements prior to the start of work. Insurance policies will not be cancelled or altered until after sixty (60) days’ unconditional written notice to University. In accordance with Texas state law, University shall not name any individual or entity as Additional Insured on a University insurance policy.

12. Indemnification. CONTRACTING PARTY SHALL INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS UNIVERSITY AND ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, AGENTS, AND EMPLOYEES FROM AND AGAINST ALL LIABILITY, LOSS, EXPENSES (INCLUDING REASONABLE LITIGATION COSTS AND ATTORNEY FEES), OR CLAIMS FOR INJURY OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT (COLLECTIVELY, “CLAIM”) TO THE EXTENT THE CLAIM ARISES FROM THE NEGLIGENCE, WILLFUL ACT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, OR VIOLATION OF LAW BY CONTRACTING PARTY, ITS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, CONTRACTORS, OR SUBCONTRACTORS.

13. Subcontracts. If Contracting Party subcontracts any of the work set forth in this Agreement, Contracting Party shall ensure that each subcontractor, vendor, affiliate, agent or representative agrees to and complies with all provisions of this Agreement and this Addendum. Contracting Party will remain liable for the acts and omissions of such subcontractor(s) and the proper performance and delivery of the products and/or services set forth in this Agreement.

14. Assignment. Contracting Party shall not assign any of its rights under this Agreement, either voluntarily or involuntarily, whether by merger, consolidation, dissolution, operation of law, or any other manner, except with the prior written consent of University. Contracting Party shall not delegate any performance under this Agreement, except with the prior written consent of University. Any purported assignment of rights or delegation of performance in violation of this provision is null and void.

15. Access by Individuals with Disabilities. To the extent Contracting Party is providing Electronic Information Resources, as described herein, to University, Contracting Party represents and warrants that the electronic and information resources, as defined by Texas law, and all associated information, documentation and support that it provides to University under this Agreement (“Electronic and information Resources (EIR) Accessibility Warranty”; collectively, the “EIRs”) comply with the applicable requirements set forth in Title 1, Chapters 206 and 213 of the Texas Administrative Code. University may review, test, evaluate and monitor Contracting Party’s EIRs for compliance with the EIR Accessibility Warranty. Contracting Party agrees to cooperate fully and provide University timely access to EIRs and other items and information needed to conduct such review, evaluation, testing and monitoring. Neither the review, testing (including acceptance testing), evaluation, or monitoring of any EIR, nor the absence of such review, testing, evaluation, or monitoring will result in a waiver of the University’s right to contest the Contracting Party’s assertion of compliance with the EIR Accessibility Warranty. To the extent Contracting Party becomes aware that the EIRs, or any portion thereof, do not comply with the EIR Accessibility Warranty, then Contracting Party represents and warrants that it will, at no cost to University, either (1) perform all necessary remediation to make the EIRs satisfy the EIR Accessibility Warranty or (2) replace the EIRs with new EIRs that satisfy the EIR Accessibility Warranty. In the event Contracting Party fails or is unable to do so, then University may terminate this Agreement and Contracting Party will refund to University all amounts University has paid under this Agreement during the time Contracting Party was out of compliance with the EIR Accessibility Warranty within thirty (30) days after the termination date.

16. Other Agreements. This Agreement and Addendum is the entire agreement between University (including University's employees) and Contracting Party. Contracting Party may enter into terms of use agreements, end user license agreements ("EULA"), shrink-wrap provisions, or other agreements or understandings with users of a site or software who are not University's employees. University shall not be liable for the actions of the users of any application, site or services, other than University's employees and to the extent permitted herein. In the event that Contracting Party enters into terms of use agreements, terms of services agreements, EULA, shrink-wrap, click-through or other agreements or understandings, whether verbal or in writing, with University's employees, such as by requiring the employee to click an on screen indicator indicating "I accept" before allowing the user to access the application, site or

OGC Rev. 04/2022 Page 3 of 6 service, such agreements shall be null, void and without effect, and the terms of this Agreement and this Addendum shall apply. Contracting Party acknowledges and agrees that no University employee other than its President has the authority to bind University in contract. University will not be bound to any other terms and conditions set forth in any documents, agreements or policies posted on Contracting Party's website unless such terms and conditions are set forth in this Agreement. Contracting Party may not unilaterally change any term or condition of this Agreement.

17. Termination for Convenience. University may terminate this Agreement in writing at any time upon providing at least thirty (30) days written notice to Contracting Party. University will only be liable for payment for Services received prior to the effective date of such termination.

18. Loss of Funding. Performance by University under this Agreement may be dependent upon the appropriation and allotment of funds by the Texas State Legislature (the "Legislature") and/or allocation of funds by the Board of Regents of University (the "Board"). If the Legislature fails to appropriate or allot the necessary funds, or the Board fails to allocate the necessary funds, then University will issue written notice to Contracting Party and University may terminate this Agreement without further duty or obligation hereunder. Contracting Party acknowledges that appropriation, allotment, and allocation of funds are beyond the control of University.

19. State Auditor’s Office. Contracting Party understands that acceptance of funds under this Agreement constitutes acceptance of the authority of the Texas State Auditor's Office, or any successor agency (collectively, “Auditor”), to conduct an audit or investigation in connection with those funds pursuant to Sections 51.9335(c), Texas Education Code. Contracting Party agrees to cooperate with the Auditor in the conduct of the audit or investigation, including without limitation providing all records requested. Contracting Party will include this provision in all contracts with permitted subcontractors.

20. Limitations. THE PARTIES ARE AWARE THAT THERE ARE CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORY LIMITATIONS ON THE AUTHORITY OF UNIVERSITY (A STATE AGENCY) TO ENTER INTO CERTAIN TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THOSE TERMS AND CONDITIONS RELATING TO LIENS ON UNIVERSITY’S PROPERTY; DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTIES; DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES; WAIVERS, DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS OF LEGAL RIGHTS, REMEDIES, REQUIREMENTS AND PROCESSES; LIMITATIONS OF PERIODS TO BRING LEGAL ACTION; GRANTING CONTROL OF LITIGATION OR SETTLEMENT TO ANOTHER PARTY; LIABILITY FOR ACTS OR OMISSIONS OF THIRD PARTIES; PAYMENT OF ATTORNEYS’ FEES; DISPUTE RESOLUTION; INDEMNITIES; AND CONFIDENTIALITY (COLLECTIVELY, THE “LIMITATIONS”), AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS RELATED TO THE LIMITATIONS WILL NOT BE BINDING ON UNIVERSITY EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT AUTHORIZED BY

THE LAWS AND CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF TEXAS.

21. Sovereign Immunity. The Parties stipulate and agree that no provision of, or any part of this Agreement between University and Contracting Party, or any subsequent change order, amendment, or other Agreement modification shall be construed: (1) as a waiver of the doctrine of sovereign immunity or immunity from suit as provided for in the Texas Constitution and the Laws of the State of Texas; (2) to extend…