Fort Lewis College

Buyer seeks a qualified marketing and strategic communications firm for two key priorities. First, a comprehensive organizational assessment of their marketing and communications team to identify improvement opportunities. Second, strategic communications support for their incoming first Native American president, including thought leadership and media engagement. Buyer is a public liberal arts institution with 3,400 students, known for inclusive excellence and community engagement.

• 6/2/2025 - RFP Available to Vendors
• 6/6/2025 - Question Period Closes
• 6/10/2025 - Final Addenda Issued
• 6/17/2025 - Evaluation Period
• 6/17/2025 - Proposal Due Date
• 6/23/2025 - Virtual Interviews/Presentations
• 6/30/2025 - Anticipated Notification of Intent to Award

• Experience with strategic communications and marketing review
• Experience supporting first-time presidents and institutions in leadership transition

• Conduct comprehensive marketing department organizational assessment
• Evaluate team composition, roles, and reporting structures
• Review quality and effectiveness of marketing materials
• Assess vendor agreements for value and strategic fit
• Conduct stakeholder interviews and potential surveys
• Deliver actionable recommendations for department improvement
• Provide implementation support for recommendations
• Develop president's thought leadership strategy
• Identify key themes and audiences for leadership messaging
• Craft messaging aligned with organizational goals
• Provide media training for the president
• Draft speeches, op-eds, and executive communications
• Position new president as leading voice in relevant sectors
• Offer guidance during sensitive situations or crises
• Support first-time president during leadership transition