Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations

The University of South Dakota is seeking a full‑service marketing communications and public‑relations agency to act as a strategic partner for a two‑year period (with a one‑year extension option). The agency will develop and execute strategic communications plans, manage media relations, plan and buy paid media, provide ongoing reporting and analytics, and support occasional creative projects. Quarterly on‑site visits and weekly virtual status meetings are required, and the agency will handle a media budget of roughly $250‑$350 K per year in addition to a $100 K annual retainer. • Core services: strategic communications planning, earned‑media relations, crisis communications, paid‑media planning/buying, performance measurement. • Financial scope: $100 K annual retainer plus management of a $250‑$350 K media spend; additional project‑based creative work billed separately. • Contract terms: 2‑year base contract with a one‑year renewal option; award expected late October 2026, work to commence shortly thereafter. • Evaluation factors: expertise in higher‑education marketing, local market familiarity, past performance, staffing/resources, and cost.