RFP26-08 - Alumni Magazine

Massachusetts Maritime Academy is requesting proposals for the production and distribution of a semi-annual alumni magazine under RFP26-08, with proposals due July 10, 2026 at 2 p.m. and selection scheduled for July 29, 2026.

The scope encompasses creative direction, writing, editing, photography, design and layout, print production, postage and mailing coordination, and project management. The magazine will be published in spring and fall with a circulation of approximately 15,000 copies per issue — approximately 12,000 mailed and 3,000 delivered to campus — distributed to alumni, families of current cadets, donors, employers, state legislators and congressional delegation offices, state university leadership, high school guidance directors, and maritime industry partners. Specifications call for 8.5" × 11" finished size with 32 or 36 pages plus covers, four-color printing throughout with full bleeds on 80-pound gloss stock, and saddle-stitch or perfect binding. Vendors must provide Section 508-compliant accessible PDF versions.

Vendors must demonstrate a minimum of three years' experience in magazine production or graphic design and submit a statement of qualifications, three work samples, and business references. One original hard copy and one electronic copy on a thumb drive are required.

The contract term is three years with two one-year renewal options. The Academy will evaluate proposals based on years of experience, quality of design samples, and project management capability, awarding to the responsive and responsible vendor with the highest-rated technical proposal while considering price. All proposals must include required state compliance certifications.

Questions are due June 15, 2026; the Academy will respond June 22, 2026.