Schatz Proposal.pdf

Proposal for Research Program Outreach and Administrative Assistance

Prepared by:

11950 W. Highland Ave.

Blackwell, OK 74631 POC: Sheree Lewis | 580.628.4607 sheree.lewis@schatzpublishing.com www.schatzpublishing.com

ORIGINAL

11950 W. Highland Ave. Blackwell, OK 580-628-4607 FAX 580-628-2011 www.schatzpublishing.com

07/21/2025

State of Nebraska Department of Transportation Attn: Dana Smith PO Box 94759 Lincoln, NE 68509-4759

Re: Solicitation #R420-25

Thank you for the opportunity to submit our proposal in response to Solicitation #R420-25. We welcome the opportunity to partner with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) in advancing its research program outreach and administrative functions through accessible communication and efficient coordination.

Schatz Publishing Group (Schatz) is a communications firm with over thirty years of experience supporting federal and state transportation agencies. Our team brings specialized expertise in technical writing, stakeholder outreach, and multi-state program management, including deep familiarity with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), and pooled funds.

We are confident in our ability to meet and exceed NDOT’s expectations. Our team of over 90 professionals offers depth and redundancy across all project roles, from editorial management and content development to graphic design, reimbursement facilitation, and stakeholder communication. We ensure that all deliverables are compliant with the federal Plain Writing Act and Section 508 accessibility standards, delivering clear, timely, and accurate products to both technical and general audiences. We have also managed the coordination of government travel for several years.

Our complete response, including the technical approach, proposed personnel, organizational experience, and cost structure, is enclosed. We welcome the opportunity to discuss further how Schatz can support NDOT’s mission and look forward to the possibility of working together.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Sheree Lewis Manager http://www.schatzpublishing.com/

ORIGINAL

Solicitation #R420-25 | i

Table of Contents Corporate Overview

Bidder Identification and Information Financial Statements Change of Ownership Office Location Relationships with the State Bidder's Employee Relations to State Contract Performance Summary of Bidder's Corporate Experience Summary of Bidder’s Proposed Personnel/Management Approach Subcontractors

Technical Response Understanding of the Project Requirements Proposed Development Approach Technical Requirements Detailed Project Work Plan Deliverables and Due Dates

Acceptance of Terms and Conditions Acceptance of Vendor Duties Appendix A: Work Samples

Appendix A-1: FHWA EAR Program – Research Summary Sample Appendix A-2: Public Roads “Along the Road” Column – News Poll Equivalent Appendix A-3: TPF Program- Fact Sheet Sample Appendix A-4: HUD Travel Coordination Overview – Reimbursement Example Additional Reimbursement Funds Experience Appendix A-5: VDOT Research Report – Recycled Plastic Modified Asphalt Case Study 20 Appendix B - Resumes of Key Personnel

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Corporate Overview Bidder Identification and Information Company Name and address:

Schatz Publishing Group, LLC 11950 W. Highland Ave., Blackwell, OK 74631 Schatz Publishing Group, LLC was organized in 1991.

The organization’s name was changed from Emu Today & Tomorrow, LLC to Schatz Publishing Group in 2000. The form of the organization has not changed.

Financial Statements Schatz Publishing Group (Schatz) is a privately held firm with a strong financial stability and operational longevity record, supporting federal, state, and local government clients for over 34 years. Our client base includes the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Department of State (DoS), Department of the Treasury, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Schatz specializes in research outreach, technical writing and administrative support for complex, multi-state and multi-agency initiatives. We assist with the development of annual financial reports, budget summaries, and program fact sheets, and administer reimbursement processes for federally funded projects. This experience demonstrates our ability to manage and account for significant project funds, coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and deliver compliant materials on time and within budget.

Schatz brings extensive technical writing and editing experience with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), including developing technical summaries and fact sheets for FHWA, supporting the Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) program, and contributing to Public Roads magazine and the "Along the Road" section. Our state DOT support includes technical editing for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). We have also promoted the Transportation Pooled Fund program and administered travel reimbursement for other multi-state research programs demonstrating our ability to ensure accurate accounting and timely disbursement of funds to participating entities.

Schatz maintains a longstanding relationship with BancFirst, located at 101 N Main St, Blackwell, OK 74631. Our contact is Jared Grell and he can be reached at (580) 363-4141.

We implement robust internal controls and financial management practices to meet the requirements of federal clients, as reflected in our history of positive performance evaluations and contract renewals. We offer the stability, technical expertise, and experience necessary to fulfill the Research Program Outreach and Administrative Assistance contract requirements.

Schatz has no judgments, no pending or expected litigation, and no known real or potential financial reversals which might materially affect the viability or stability of Schatz.

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Change of Ownership Schatz has maintained stable ownership and leadership since its founding in 1991. No change of ownership is anticipated. We maintain internal succession and contingency planning to ensure continuity of service.

Office Location Contract oversight will be managed from our headquarters at 11950 W. Highland Ave, Blackwell, OK. This site supports all documentation, communication, and virtual collaboration required by the State of Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT).

Relationships with the State Schatz has not held contracts with the State of Nebraska within the past five years, nor do we currently employ any former State of Nebraska personnel.

Bidder's Employee Relations to State No individuals currently employed by Schatz or as subcontractors to Schatz are, or have been, employees of the State of Nebraska within the past twelve (12) months.

Contract Performance Schatz affirms we have not experienced a contract termination for default within the past five (5) years. There are no instances of non-performance or poor performance resulting in a notice to stop performance or delivery.

We have experienced the recent loss of contracts due to government-wide cuts made under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Account Contact Name Phone Number Length of Service

Reason for Loss

Federal contract:

Innovation in Affordable Housing Student Competition

Patricia O.

Akinrogunde, Ed.D., CPCM

202-402-7741 6 years DOGE cuts

Federal contract:

Focus Groups for US Customs and Immigration Services

Mary Shinney 802 760-0114 2 years DOGE cuts

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Summary of Bidder's Corporate Experience Schatz has extensive experience delivering research outreach, technical communications, and administrative support for government research programs with multi-state stakeholder engagement.

Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center

Contract Name Marketing and Communications, Editorial and Publications Support, and Publication of Public Roads Magazine

Time Period of Project 9/30/20–present

Scheduled and Actual Completion Dates

9/30/20–9/29/25, contract is still in progress

Contact Information TaMara McCrae, tamara.mccrea@dot.gov, 202-493-3382

Responsibilities Prime Contractor. Relevance. As the lead marketing and editorial partner for FHWA’s Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center, Schatz produces clear, accessible research communications across multiple FHWA programs. Our experience includes:

• Writing technical summaries and fact sheets in collaboration with subject matter experts for FHWA, including the Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) Program. See Appendix A-1 for a research summary developed for FHWA’s EAR Program, which mirrors NDOT’s technical summary deliverable in both format and clarity.

• Developing news polls content, including the Public Roads “Along the Road” section and R&T Now newsletter articles. A sample from the “Along the Road” column can be seen in Appendix A-2, demonstrating our ability to deliver timely, public-facing updates in the format and tone NDOT expects for its news polls.

• Editing and formatting FHWA reports for public release, ensuring compliance with plain language and Section 508 accessibility standards.

We manage the full communications lifecycle—from research synthesis to design and review—delivering materials that meet FHWA editorial guidelines and effectively translate technical content for public and stakeholder audiences. This positions us to produce high-quality, NDOT-compliant outreach materials across all required formats.

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Schatz has supported FHWA’s Transportation Pooled Fund (TPF) Program by developing outreach materials that communicate research outcomes, multi-state collaboration, and appropriate use of SPR Subpart B (SPR-B) funds. Our work helps stakeholders understand how pooled fund investments support national transportation priorities. We have:

• Developed fact sheets and summaries that explain TPF Program’s structure, funding mechanisms, and research results. See Appendix A-3 for a TPF Program fact sheet that illustrates how we visualize funding use and research impact for stakeholder communication— directly aligned with NDOT’s SPR fact sheet goals.

• Created content specifically focused on helping state agencies understand how SPR-B funding supports participation in pooled fund projects.

• Aligned all deliverables with FHWA style, accessibility, and state communication goals.

These experiences demonstrate our ability to support NDOT’s pooled fund efforts with clear, compliant, and stakeholder-ready materials.

No subcontractors are used for this project.

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Policy Development and Research

Contract Name Innovation in Affordable Housing Student Design and Planning Competition

Time Period of Project

8/15/19–06/30/24

Scheduled and Actual Completion Dates

8/15/19–06/30/24

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Contact Information

Jagruti Rekhi, Jagruti.D.Rekhi@hud.gov, 202-402-4512

Cathy J. Baker, 817-978-5404, cathy.j.baker@hud.gov

Responsibilities Prime contractor. Relevance: Our team successfully managed end-to-end travel planning and reimbursement for multi-team site visit initiatives located in various states and final presentations held in DC. We coordinated travel for finalists in a government-funded program, working closely with each team to identify members eligible for reimbursable travel under program guidelines.

Our responsibilities included:

• Gathering travel details from participating team members;

• Booking hotel accommodations on their behalf;

• Negotiating reduced group rates by securing hotel room blocks;

• Attending site visits to ensure smooth logistics and provide on-site support;

• Collecting and organizing travel receipts from participants following each visit;

• Submitting reimbursement documentation in alignment with program requirements.

All reimbursable expenses were tracked and processed according to established funding limitations, ensuring compliance and accountability.

Our hands-on approach and proactive coordination helped streamline the process for all parties and ensured accurate and timely reimbursement for each traveler.

No subcontractors were used for this project.

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Contract Title Technical Editorial Services

Time Period of Project

10/01/2024- 09/30/2025

Scheduled and Actual Completion Dates

10/01/2024- 09/30/2025, This contract does have an option to renew for four (4) successive one (1) year periods.

Contact Information

Michael Fitch, Ph.D. 434-293-1962 michael.fitch@vdot.virginia.gov mailto:Jagruti.D.Rekhi@hud.gov mailto:cathy.j.baker@hud.gov

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Responsibilities Prime Contractor. Relevance: Schatz currently supports the VDOT with technical writing and research communications. Through that work, we have gained firsthand experience with:

• State-level transportation research dissemination

• Coordination with VDOT engineers and program managers

• Formatting deliverables to match state and federal standards

This experience strengthens our readiness to meet NDOT’s expectations and adds momentum to our expanding state DOT portfolio. Appendix A- 5 includes a VDOT research report we edited, reflecting our state DOT experience and ability to produce polished, compliant research deliverables for technical audiences.

No subcontractors are used for this project.

Summary of Bidder’s Proposed Personnel/Management Approach Schatz’s proposed personnel structure is built to meet NDOT’s specific needs for research communication and pooled fund administration. Our team brings deep transportation-sector experience and clearly defined roles to ensure accountability and delivery precision.

Key Personnel Schatz proposes the following key personnel:

• Project Manager – Provides oversight of contract and manages travel reimbursements for the Midwest Roadside Safety Pooled Fund, ensuring policy compliance, accuracy, and full documentation. Serves as NDOT’s primary point of contact, leading all deliverables, timelines, and quality control.

• Editorial Manager – Oversees editorial, design, and admin teams with extensive experience managing multi-disciplinary transportation communication projects.

• Technical Writer/Editor – Convert complex final reports into accessible summaries.

Each writer is trained in FHWA SPR guidance and plain language standards.

Experienced in developing short-form, timely, and visually supported updates.

Collaborates directly with NDOT’s Research Section.

• Graphic Designer – Creates concise, data-driven one-pagers for SPR and pooled fund projects, with expertise in data visualization and stakeholder communications.

We have deep benches for each of these positions, allowing us to provide both surge support if needed and back up support in case of staff illness or vacation.

Resumes are located in Appendix B.

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Staff Bios (Resumes are located in Appendix B) Name/Position Jill McAninch, Project Manager

Experience

Ms. McAninch is a seasoned project manager with 18 years of experience leading communications initiatives. She is skilled in coordinating cross-functional teams and managing client expectations.

She has extensive experience in budget oversight, including reimbursement processes for multi-state initiatives, ensuring compliance with federal and local requirements.

Name/Position Allison Simmons-Jacobi, Editorial Manager

Experience

Ms. Simmons-Jacobi has 30 years of experience in transportation and energy communications, leading editorial, design, and administrative teams on complex public outreach projects. She specializes in developing public-facing content for websites and publications, focusing on editorial accuracy, design quality, and message clarity.

Name/Position Mary E. Lee, Editorial Manager and Technical Writer/Editor

Experience

Ms. Lee brings 27 years of experience in technical editing, process documentation, and content development. She specializes in refining complex materials with precision, applying multiple editorial style guides to ensure clarity, consistency, and quality.

Name/Position Chris McCoy, Technical Writer/Editor

Experience

Mr. McCoy is a seasoned editor and writer with over 16 years of experience producing clear, engaging content across diverse subjects and formats. He specializes in translating complex technical information into accessible language for public and private audiences. His work spans web and print, with notable contributions to government websites in defense, health, and transportation.

Name/Position Christine Walsh, Technical Writer/Editor

Experience

With 25 years of editorial experience, Ms. Walsh excels at refining multichannel content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency. She applies plain-language principles and adheres to client style guides, delivering high-quality transportation research across platforms. Skilled at managing multiple projects under tight deadlines, she consistently maintains rigorous editorial standards.

Name/Position David McDonald, Graphic Designer

Experience

Mr. McDonald brings 22 years of experience in publication formatting, layout, and visual design, with a focus on federal communications. He supports the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) by designing a wide range of publications, including TechBriefs, fact sheets, reports, and materials for the Exploratory Advanced Research (EAR) Program.

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Management Approach We prioritize:

• Proactive communication with NDOT

• Rigorous quality control using editorial checklists and peer review

• Seamless workflow integration through clear role assignments and established review cycles

Our teams follow structured editorial and administrative protocols—including Section 508 accessibility, Basecamp project tracking, and collaborative client review—to ensure NDOT receives timely, accurate, and compliant deliverables. With decades of experience managing federal and state transportation contracts, Schatz offers NDOT a responsive, detail-oriented, and capable delivery partner.

Subcontractors Schatz will not use subcontractors for the Research Program Outreach and Administrative Assistance contract. All work will be performed by our in-house team of experienced professionals skilled in technical writing, editorial production, travel reimbursement, and project management.

Technical Response Schatz supports NDOT by delivering clear, accessible research communications and efficient pooled fund administration. Our approach translates complex transportation research into public-facing deliverables while managing multi-state reimbursements with accuracy and transparency.

Understanding of the Project Requirements Schatz understands NDOT’s needs for both technical communication and pooled fund coordination. We have supported FHWA, DOT, and VDOT with similar deliverables and operations. Our work includes:

• Technical summaries, fact sheets, and stakeholder communications for the FHWA Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center

• Program-level outreach materials with plain language, infographics, and accessibility compliance

• Full understanding of pooled fund travel reimbursement processes aligned with state-specific policies

The team assists in the development of success stories, summaries, reports, and other documentation for FHWA’s Transportation Pooled Fund program.

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Proposed Development Approach Our team delivers high-quality communications and logistical support through a structured, deadline-driven workflow that emphasizes clarity, consistency, and accountability. We are experienced in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects, and our approach is designed to ensure timely delivery, precision in execution, and alignment with NDOT’s goals and standards.

Through every step of the engagement, our team applie proven project management practices to meet all deadlines and deliverables. We pride ourselves on being proactive, communicative, and reliable partners, and we are committed to helping NDOT achieve its goals through effective and efficient support services.

Our first step is to meet and ensure we understand what NDOT expects in terms of our service, the timeline, revisions, preferences, style guides, considerations and vision for the final product.

This step is followed by execution, which includes regular communication intervals, quality assurance, and coordination.

NDOT can expect the following deliverables and services as part of our development approach:

• Research Summaries We will produce up to four (4) professionally designed 4-page research summaries each year. These summaries will be developed using plain language principles to ensure accessibility and clarity for broad audiences. Our team will integrate custom visual elements—including charts, infographics, and diagrams—to effectively communicate key findings and support NDOT’s research objectives.

• News Polls We will draft ten (10) news polls annually, each approximately 500 words in length.

These polls will be developed in close collaboration with NDOT to ensure topical relevance and messaging accuracy. Graphics will be included to enhance engagement, and our editorial process is optimized for expedited turnaround, allowing NDOT to maintain a responsive and timely communications strategy.

• Program Fact Sheet Our team will design a high-impact, double-sided fact sheet summarizing SPR and Midwest Roadside Safety Pooled Fund activities. This piece will be visually engaging, easy to distribute, and crafted to clearly convey the value and impact of these programs to internal and external stakeholders.

• Pooled Fund Travel Reimbursement Coordination We will manage travel reimbursement coordination for up to 30 states participating in the pooled fund. This includes reviewing documentation for completeness and compliance, tracking reimbursement status, and consolidating all billing into a clear, Solicitation #R420-25 | 10 organized invoicing system for NDOT. Our team’s attention to detail and experience with interagency coordination ensures a smooth and compliant reimbursement process.

Editorial and Quality Control Process Each deliverable follows a rigorous editorial process to ensure clarity, accuracy, and compliance with federal standards. Our approach includes:

• Assign technical writers trained in FHWA SPR rules and federal plain language standards.

• Use Adobe Creative Suite to develop graphics that meet Section 508 accessibility and NDOT branding requirements.

• Implement editorial workflows with internal peer review, iterative NDOT feedback, and formatting for both print and digital distribution.

Technical Requirements Schatz will deliver NDOT-ready research communications and administrative support through structured project management, proven editorial workflows, and a team of experienced personnel. Our approach, refined on contracts with government entitites such as FHWA, DoS and HUD, ensures every deliverable is accurate, accessible, and on time.

We assign dedicated experts to each project component, including:

• Research Summary Writers, trained in FHWA SPR standards

• News Poll Developers, experienced in public-facing, plain-language content

• Fact Sheet Specialists, skilled in visualizing program health and research impact

Using tools like Basecamp and internal QC protocols, we:

• Track deliverables and review cycles

• Coordinate directly with NDOT staff

We regularly assist FHWA with writing, editing, graphic design, layout, and publication of Reporst and Summary Reports

For the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, VA, Schatz assists in writing, editing, layout, graphic design, and publishing of EAR Research

Summaries.

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• Document decisions, drafts, and approvals

• Pair each submission with a second-level editorial review for clarity and compliance

For pooled fund travel reimbursements, we:

• Communicate directly with state reps

• Review and verify documentation against each state’s policy

• Maintain audit-ready records and submit consolidated, transparent invoices to NDOT

The result: clear communications, efficient reimbursements, and complete confidence that NDOT’s standards are met at every step.

Reimbursement Facilitation Workflow We use a repeatable, policy-aligned process to manage multi-state travel reimbursements efficiently and transparently. The workflow that we will use for the annual Midwest Roadside Safety Pooled Fund meeting includes:

• Distribute clear instructions, submission deadlines, and standardized documentation templates to all travelers prior to the annual meeting.

• Collect approved travel documentation via secure email post-meeting, verifying completeness and adherence to travel policy.

• Track submissions using structured spreadsheets and checklists; resolve missing or inconsistent information directly with travelers.

• Process reimbursements according to individual state travel policies, maintaining detailed records for audit readiness.

• Prepare and submit a consolidated invoice package to NDOT within the required four-week window, including itemized expense summaries and administrative fees.

• Provide NDOT with weekly status updates throughout the reimbursement window, ensuring full transparency and responsive issue resolution.

Detailed Project Work Plan This work plan outlines the tasks, responsibilities, and timelines associated with providing communications and logistical support services to NDOT. Our structured workflow ensures consistent quality, efficient delivery, and ongoing collaboration.

1. Research Summaries (Up to 4 Annually)

Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Project Kickoff Meet with NDOT to identify annual summary topics and timeline

Scheduled upon award

Schatz PM +

NDOT

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Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Content Development

Draft plain-language summaries from source materials

1 week per summary

Writer/Editor

Visual Design Create custom charts, graphics, and layout design

1-2 weeks per summary

Graphic Designer

NDOT Review Submit for NDOT review, revise based on feedback

1–2 weeks per round

Editorial Manager

Final Delivery Provide press-ready PDFs and web-optimized files

Per summary schedule

Editorial Manager

2. News Polls (10 Annually)

Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Topic Coordination

Meet with NDOT quarterly to identify poll topics

Quarterly Schatz PM +

NDOT

Drafting Write 500-word articles, incorporating NDOT guidance

1 week per poll

Writer/Editor

Graphics Develop simple data visuals or header graphics

2–3 days per poll

Designer

Review & Edit Internal QA + NDOT feedback and revisions

3–5 days per poll

Editor + NDOT

Final Submission

Submit final copy and visuals for NDOT use

Rolling basis Project Manager

3. Program Fact Sheet (1 Annually) Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Planning Meet with NDOT to confirm content and objectives

Q2 Schatz PM + NDOT

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Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Drafting Write copy summarizing SPR and Pooled Fund activities

1–2 weeks

Writer/Editor

Design Create double-sided fact sheet layout and graphics

1 week Graphic Designer

Review & Approval

Revise based on NDOT input 1 week Editorial Manager +

NDOT

Delivery Provide print- and web-ready formats By Q3 EditorialManager

4. Pooled Fund Travel Reimbursement Coordination

Task Description Timeline Responsible Parties

Setup & Tracking Create tracking system for up to 30 states

At contract start

Project Manager

Reimbursement Review

Verify documentation and compliance

Ongoing Editorial Manager

Communication Liaise with participants on missing/incorrect submissions

Ongoing Editorial Manager

Invoicing Submit consolidated invoices to

NDOT

Monthly or per event

Project Manager

Ongoing Communication & Quality Assurance

Activity Description Frequency Responsible Parties

NDOT Check-ins Progress updates and deliverable planning

Monthly or as needed

Project Manager

Internal QA Reviews

Ensure editorial, design, and logistical accuracy

Before all submissions

Editorial Manager

Project Documentation

Maintain detailed records of tasks and communications

Ongoing Project Coordinator

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This work plan is flexible and can be adjusted based on NDOT’s evolving needs and project priorities. We are committed to delivering all components on schedule, within scope, and to the highest quality standards.

Deliverables and Due Dates Deliverable Description Estimated Due Dates Frequency

Research Summary #1

4-page summary with visuals March Annual

Research Summary #2

4-page summary with visuals June Annual

Research Summary #3

4-page summary with visuals

September Annual

Research Summary #4

4-page summary with visuals December Annual

News Polls (1–10) 500-word articles with graphics

January, February, March, April, May, June, August, September, October, November

Monthly (10 total/year)

Program Fact Sheet Double-sided summary of SPR and Pooled Fund activities

July Annual

Travel Reimbursement Setup

System setup for managing 30-state coordination

January Annual (initial setup)

Monthly Reimbursement Coordination

Review, compliance check, and NDOT invoicing

End of each month Monthly

Monthly Progress Reports / Check-ins

Updates on deliverables and logistics coordination

Last Friday of each month Monthly

Notes:

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• Due dates are flexible based on NDOT’s scheduling needs.

• Deliverables will be reviewed with NDOT prior to finalization, allowing time for feedback and revisions.

• Emergency or expedited timelines can be accommodated when needed, especially for news poll turnaround or pooled fund travel changes.

Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

Exceptions Taken to Terms and Conditions

Acceptance of Vendor Duties

Exceptions Taken to Vendor Duties

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Appendix A: Work Samples The following table summarizes submitted work samples that demonstrate Schatz’s qualifications for the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Research Program Outreach and Administrative Assistance contract. Each sample highlights relevant experience aligned with NDOT’s scope of work and the proposal’s key win themes.

Sample

Deliverable Type Title / Description Client / Program Relevance to NDOT

Scope

A-1 Technical Summary

FHWA EAR Program

– Research Summary Sample

FHWA–EAR

Program

Mirrors NDOT’s research summary requirement

A-2 News Poll Equivalent

Public Roads “Along the Road” Column – News Poll Equivalent

FHWA – Public Roads Magazine

Equivalent format and tone to NDOT’s requested news polls

A-3 TPF Program Fact Sheet

TPF Program- Fact Sheet Sample

FHWA – TPF

Program

Matches NDOT’s SPR fact sheet deliverable

A-4 Travel Coordination Overview

HUD Travel Coordination Overview – Multi- State Reimbursement Example

HUD – Office of Policy Development and Research

Demonstrates experience in multi-agency event coordination

A-5 State DOT Research Report

VDOT Research Report – Recycled Plastic Modified Asphalt Case Study

VDOT

Demonstrates Schatz’s state DOT readiness and editorial support for complex technical research

Appendix A-1: FHWA EAR Program – Research Summary Sample

Integrated Data Collection Method for Tracking Freight Movement [View full summary PDF]

This FHWA EAR research summary demonstrates Schatz’s ability to synthesize complex research findings into clear, accessible content. It includes visuals, plain language, and compliance with federal editorial and accessibility standards—directly aligned with NDOT’s requested research summary deliverables.

https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/ear/21089/21089.pdf

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Appendix A-2: Public Roads “Along the Road” Column – News Poll Equivalent

This “Along the Roads” column for FHWA’s Public Roads magazine mirrors the format, tone, and purpose of NDOT’s proposed news polls. Each column delivers a timely research or program update in a short, plain-language format (typically ~400–500 words), with accompanying visuals and links to more information.

Appendix A-3: TPF Program- Fact Sheet Sample

This two-page fact sheet highlights program-level activity, funding use, and pooled fund outcomes. It is designed using Adobe Creative Suite, with layout and contrast optimized for stakeholder communication, accessibility, and public transparency, in line with NDOT’s fact sheet deliverable.

The factsheet can be formatted for print or digital use per NDOT specifications.

Appendix A-4: HUD Travel Coordination Overview – Multi- State Reimbursement Example The example on the following page outlines Schatz’s work planning, coordinating, and reimbursing travel for HUD’s national Innovation in Affordable Housing competition with public housing agencies (PHAs). It demonstrates our ability to manage multi-agency logistics, negotiate hotel blocks, collect documentation, and process federally funded travel reimbursements—directly aligned with NDOT’s needs for pooled fund travel facilitation and transparent, policy-compliant reimbursements.

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Additional Reimbursement Funds Experience Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Student Planning and

Design Competition Schatz successfully managed end-to-end travel planning and reimbursement for a multi-team site visit initiative. We coordinated travel for finalists in a government-funded program, working closely with each team to identify up to two members eligible for reimbursable travel under program guidelines.Our responsibilities included:

• Gathering travel details from participating team members;

• Booking hotel accommodations on their behalf;

• Negotiating reduced group rates by securing hotel room blocks;

• Attending site visits to ensure smooth logistics and provide on-site support;

• Collecting and organizing travel receipts from participants following each visit;

• Submitting reimbursement documentation in alignment with program requirements.

All reimbursable expenses were tracked and processed according to established funding limitations, ensuring compliance and accountability. Our hands-on approach and proactive coordination helped streamline the process for all parties and ensured accurate and timely reimbursement for each traveler.

Air Mobility Command (AMC) The Mobility Forum (TMF) As part of our standard process, we begin by gathering assignment details from the client, followed by conducting in-depth research to estimate the full cost of travel. This includes transportation to and from the airport, flight costs, hotel rates, per diem meal allowances, and car rental expenses. Based on this research, we prepare a comprehensive travel expense breakdown in a structured Excel spreadsheet, which is then submitted to the client for review and approval.

Upon approval, we coordinate with the client's contracting or finance department to receive the necessary funds. Our finance team tracks and processes the received funds efficiently, ensuring readiness to support the assignment.

Armed Forces Entertainment (AFE) We currently provide travel reimbursement coordination for videographers supporting the Armed Forces Entertainment (AFE) during on-site tours and events. The video production team is required to retain receipts for all travel-related expenses, including airfare, lodging, meals, and local transportation. These receipts are submitted to us following the assignment. We compile and review all documentation to ensure completeness and accuracy before submitting the expenses to the client for reimbursement.

To maintain financial transparency and accountability, travel costs are tracked against a dedicated portion of the project budget specifically allocated for travel. This allows us to clearly distinguish travel-related expenses from other project costs and enables the client to monitor travel spending in real time.

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Appendix A-5: VDOT Research Report – Recycled Plastic Modified Asphalt Case Study Schatz provided editorial support for this report, ensuring clarity, technical consistency, and alignment with VDOT communication standards. The sample demonstrates Schatz’s experience supporting complex, state-level transportation research publications.

Excerpt:

“The purpose of this study was to assess recycled plastic-modified (RPM) asphalt mixtures field trials constructed in Virginia. This study documented and evaluated the constructability and laboratory performance of two plant-produced RPM mixtures compared with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) typical D and E surface mixtures as reference mixtures… The study recommends that VDOT consider allowing the use of RPM surface mixtures as another alternative for surface mixtures with D designation based on the laboratory performance of corresponding asphalt mixtures.”

Link to full report: https://vtrc.virginia.gov/media/vtrc/vtrc-pdf/vtrc-pdf/26-R02.pdf https://vtrc.virginia.gov/media/vtrc/vtrc-pdf/vtrc-pdf/26-R02.pdf

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Appendix B - Resumes of Key Personnel

JILL MCANINCH – PROJECT MANAGER

20 Years of Experience

Ms. McAninch is an accomplished project manager and marketing specialist with 18 years of experience. She oversees the production of audiovisual and print materials, enhances outreach and communications messages, provides meeting transcripts, and manages marketing campaigns. She manages client expectations, analyzes qualitative and quantitative research data, and delivers effective public outreach. She manages budgets, including reimbursement processes across multi-state initiatives. She has hands-on experience ensuring compliance with federal and local requirements while coordinating logistics and financial tracking for complex outreach programs.

Key Skill Areas

• Project Management

• Strategic Communications Planning

• Market Research Analysis

• Campaign Tracking, Analysis, and

Evaluation

• Section 508 Compliance

• Multimedia Campaign Management

• Knowledge and Information

Management

• Progress Reporting and Quality Control

Schatz Strategy Group, 2014 to present

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Region 6 Ms. McAninch served as the Project Manager for a media support services contract with NHTSA’s Region 6. This included providing public outreach and education efforts to support seat belt, impaired driving, and tribal outreach programs, as well as other priority highway safety programs. To support NHTSA Region 6 in these efforts, she provided social media training to Region 6 partners, attended and presented on effective social media outreach at the Texas Traffic Safety Summit and at the Region 6 annual partners meeting.

Ms. McAninch worked with NHTSA Region 6 Program Managers to develop and deploy a series of three webinars held over three months called “Strategies for a Safer Texas.” The webinars targeted traditional and non-traditional highway safety partners, presenting strategies to make Texas roadways safer after a spike in traffic-related fatalities in Texas during 2021 and 2022. To support tribal outreach efforts, Ms. McAninch has provided event support at the Gathering of Nations Pow-Wow (the nation’s largest pow-wow), organized and managed a tribal photo shoot, and worked with the Schatz graphic design team to develop and provide tribal outreach materials for special events, including multiple retractable banners, fact sheets, and postcards.

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U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Innovation in Affordable Housing (IAH) Student Design and Planning Competition As Project Manager for this contract, Ms. McAninch served the IAH competition for five years as the primary liaison between HUD, competition teams, jurors, and the partnering Public Housing Authority (PHA). She ensured that all stakeholders remained informed about competition developments and key events, responded to questions, and provided feedback as needed.

She managed all aspects of the annual competition, including the development of judging criteria and scoring rubrics, compilation of winners and honorable mentions based on juror scores, and collaboration with HUD and the PHA to develop each year’s in-depth housing issue. Ms. McAninch supported HUD in updating competition guidelines, eligibility criteria, and design requirements. She also led the creation and execution of marketing and outreach strategies to attract students from diverse backgrounds, maintained Section 508-compliant website content, and addressed inquiries from students and jurors.

Additionally, she organized and oversaw finalist site visits, student presentations, and the awards ceremony held each spring at HUD headquarters in Washington, D.C. At the conclusion of each competition cycle, she coordinated prize distribution, issued thank-you letters to PHAs, jurors, and participants, and produced a final report summarizing activities, deliverables, and recommendations for future competitions.

To manage client expectations, Ms. McAninch ensured that the annual outreach plan met HUD’s demographic and socio-economic targets and reached institutions nationwide. She also handled all logistics for travel—including flights, accommodations, agendas, and local transportation—and recruited and coordinated jurors. Her responsibilities included monitoring project timelines and maintaining regular communication with teams and advisors to ensure timely submissions.

Her role required coordinating travel reimbursements, lodging, and prize disbursements across multiple universities and housing authorities in various states, ensuring compliance with federal and institutional requirements and timely processing.

U.S. Department of State (DoS), Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Office of Public Diplomacy Ms. McAninch served as the Marketing Specialist for an international marketing and branding campaign focusing on the Freely Associated States (FAS) – the Republic of Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. She supervised and assisted with the market research phase of the project using both quantitative and qualitative research instruments to determine each population’s baseline awareness of U.S.

assistance in their country and their primary ways of receiving information. After the research phase, she developed the campaign’s communications, outreach and branding plan based on an analysis of the research. During the planning phase, she worked with the Schatz graphic design and multimedia team to develop the branding strategy and creative collateral

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U.S. Department of Justice, Foreign Claims Settlement Commission (FCSC) As the Marketing Specialist for a media advertising contract with the FCSC, Ms. McAninch developed a marketing and outreach plan to inform citizens of Guam of a settlement claim they might be entitled to. She produced public service announcements (PSAs) for publication in newspapers, radio, and television in Guam. Once the PSAs were produced, she planned, selected, and placed them in broadcast and print media throughout Guam. In support of this contract, Ms. McAninch researched the best outlets to place the media and negotiated rates with media outlets, ultimately choosing the best media mix to achieve maximum return on investment for the government. Ms. McAninch managed the production and quick turnaround of the radio and television PSAs, completing production of both within seven days.

Awards

• 2019 APEX Award of Excellence, One-of-a-Kind Publication – Health and Medical

Publications for the Army National Guard – Guard Your Health #ClassIRecipes Cookbook

• 2018 Gold MARCOM Award for the DOS FAS international marketing and branding campaign in Strategic Communication, Marketing/Promotion Campaign, Branding.

• 2016 THOTH Bronze Anvil for the #WarriorReady Workout Videos in Social Media:

Video.

• 2016 Award of Distinction Videographer Awards for Tanana Trails video, for Fort Wainwright, AK in the Government Category.

Education and Training

• Bachelor of Science in Design, Housing and Merchandising

• Training Course: Editing and Proofreading Business Documents, 2017

References

• Sheree Lewis

11950 W. Highland Ave, Blackwell, OK 74631

(580) 628-4607

• Camille Williams 700 12th St. NW, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20005

(202) 643-4282

• Lauren Fosnot

• 315 Parkwood Dr, Lakewood Village, TX75068

(580) 628-1721

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ALLISON SIMMONS-JACOBI – EDITORIAL MANAGER

30 Years of Experience

Ms. Simmons-Jacobi has 30 years of experience specializing in transportation and energy communications. She leads teams to develop public-facing content for products and websites. She continually focuses on improving client–customer relations; advancing public-facing client programs, projects, and initiatives; and providing publication management and editorial expertise, with an eye for fine details and design enhancement opportunities.

Key Skill Areas

• Team Building

• Budget Development and Management

• Customer Service

• Vendor Relationships

• Content Creation

• Editing

• Client Relationships

• Problem-solving

Relevant Schatz Experience, March 2021 to present

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center, Project Manager and Technical Editor As project manager of Public Roads magazine and a publications technical editor, Ms. Simmons-Jacobi supports FHWA in developing public-facing products that advance agency goals, align with agency brand identity, and promote key agency programs and initiatives. Her physics background and previous engineering experience with the New York State Department of Transportation provide her with an advanced understanding of structures, materials, highway design, and planning critical to her contract roles, making her an asset to the Schatz team. Her diverse background and experience enable her to offer strategic and design guidance, editorial mentorship, and content development recommendations. Under her leadership, Public Roads magazine grew its digital subscribers by more than 1,000 percent in approximately three years.

U.S. Small Business Administration National Women’s Business Council (NWBC) Ms. Simmons-Jacobi has served as project manager of the NWBC’s annual reports since 2023. Her understanding of the publication process, content development, and design and website development enables her to maintain seamless communication flow, adhere to tight client deadlines, and meet rapid-fire turnaround times. She was instrumental in establishing client protocols and team structure, and she guided the team in launching the reports online and releasing print on time.

U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service (NPS) ArcGIS StoryMaps As project manager, Ms. Simmons-Jacobi guided the editorial and design team in developing ArcGIS StoryMaps for two NPS trails: the Trail of Tears and the California Trail.

Applying her trained eye for detail—gleaned from experience in the fields of science, Solicitation #R420-25 | 25 engineering, and journalism—Ms. Simmons-Jacobi managed all content development and coordinated design development and acquisition with the project designer for the first-ever NPS children-based ArcGIS StoryMaps project. As a published children’s book author and former resident of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site in Hyde Park, New York, she used her personal history to help create an exciting learning experience for a third-to-fifth-grade target audience.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Ms. Simmons-Jacobi provides senior-level strategic and design support for this client, helping the project manager provide superior quality products and customer service for the USDA Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center in North Dakota. Ms. Simmons- Jacobi is a key player in the development of outreach efforts for the University of North Dakota, which includes posters, flyers, other collateral, study participation, and partnership opportunities.

U.S. Department of State (DOS) Ms. Simmons-Jacobi served as project manager of the DOS’s Agency Financial Report in the initial contract year. She tapped into her organizational skills and publication demand understanding to ensure constant and timely communication flow and adherence to tight client deadlines and rapid-fire turnaround times, all while supporting the design staff with content direction and editorial support. And she was instrumental in establishing initial client protocols and team structure.

Other Relevant Experience

Project Manager and Budget Strategist, Arch Street Communications, 2011 to 2021 Ms. Simmons-Jacobi completed full-cycle project management—from full-scale proposal development to contract initiation and completion. She performed content development and editorial services for client publications, technical reports, websites, collateral, marketing campaigns, advertisements, and internal communications and presentations. She conducted budget analysis and development and provided staff supervision and mentoring. Her clients included FHWA (Public Roads magazine), U.S. Department of Transportation John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center), New York State Department of Transportation, Connecticut Department of Transportation, New York Power Authority, and Advanced Power NA, Inc., (Cricket Valley Energy Center).

Technical Writer (Contractor, part-time), STRATAC Marketing, 2020 to Present As a part-time, on-call technical-writing and content support for a strategic and tactical marketing firm, Ms. Simmons-Jacobi completed voice development and execution for senior-level staff. She also worked on blog and article development, content curation, and e-book creation for the cybersecurity, finance technology, and mortgage software industries. And she provided internal firm communication support.

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Senior Engineering Technician, New York State Department of Transportation, 2008 to 2010 Ms. Simmons-Jacobi advanced quickly from being a highway design group member to the positions of acting public information officer, planning department data analyst, and regional primavera administrator.