About University Dining Services
University Dining Services supports The University of Alabama’s mission by providing dining options that serve students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors. Dining operations include residential dining, retail locations, catering services, and campus partnerships that contribute to student success and campus life.
Dining Services works in collaboration with campus partners to deliver quality, safe, and reliable services that meet the needs of a diverse University community.
Why the University Conducts an RFP
The University of Alabama periodically conducts a Request for Proposals (RFP) for dining services in accordance with University procurement policies and procedures. Conducting an RFP is a standard and required process that allows the University to evaluate services, ensure alignment with institutional goals, and confirm that contractual arrangements continue to meet campus needs.
Conducting an RFP does not reflect dissatisfaction with current services. Instead, it supports the University’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of resources.
Commitment to Dining at the Capstone
University Dining Services remains committed to its mission of supporting student success and enriching campus life by providing accessible, high-quality dining experiences for students, faculty, staff, and campus guests. Dining Services works to create welcoming environments, offer a variety of options that meet diverse needs, and serve as an integral part of the University community.
The Request for Proposals process supports this mission by allowing the University to periodically review services and plan for the future in alignment with institutional goals and procurement requirements. Conducting an RFP does not reflect dissatisfaction with current dining services or vendors. It is a standard process that helps ensure the University continues to meet the needs of its campus community.
Throughout the RFP process, dining locations will remain open, and services will continue as usual. Students, faculty, staff, and campus guests may continue to visit dining locations and access the services available across campus while the process is underway.
Overview of the RFP Process
The RFP process is designed to ensure a fair, competitive, and consistent evaluation of proposals. While specific requirements and timelines are outlined in the official RFP documents, the process generally includes:
- Development of proposal requirements in alignment with University needs
- Submission of proposals by qualified vendors
- A structured review and evaluation process
- Selection conducted in accordance with University procurement policies
All proposals are evaluated using consistent criteria to support an objective review process.
Review and Evaluation
Proposals will be reviewed by a cross-functional committee that includes representatives from various campus areas.
This collaborative approach ensures that multiple perspectives are considered during the evaluation process while maintaining compliance with procurement requirements.
FAQs
Why is the University conducting a Dining Services RFP?
The University periodically conducts Requests for Proposals as part of standard planning and procurement practices. This process helps ensure dining services continue to align with institutional goals, comply with policy requirements, and meet the evolving needs of the campus community.
Does the RFP mean current dining services will change immediately?
No. The RFP process does not result in immediate changes to dining services. Existing dining operations and services will continue while the process is underway.
Will dining locations remain open during the RFP process?
Yes. Dining locations will remain open, and services will continue as usual throughout the RFP process.
Will current meal plans remain valid while the RFP is underway?
Yes. Students, faculty and staff may continue using their current meal plans without interruption while the RFP process is ongoing.
Will there be changes to meal plan options or dining locations as a result of the RFP?
The RFP process may result in changes once it concludes. Any potential changes to meal plan options or dining locations would be communicated campuswide in advance of implementation.
Will services for dietary restrictions continue after the RFP process?
Yes. Services that support dietary needs and food allergies will continue. Information about current accommodations is available on the Food Allergies and Special Diet Needs webpage.
Will there be changes to staffing as a result of the RFP?
As a part of the RFP requirements, the University will require all bidders to commit to retaining all hourly staff at their current rate of pay and benefits.
How will updates be shared during the RFP process?
This webpage will be updated with general information as appropriate. Official communications related to dining services will continue to be shared through established University channels.
Commitment to Transparency and Process Integrity
The University is committed to maintaining the integrity of the RFP process. To ensure fairness and consistency, all communications related to the RFP will follow established procurement guidelines.