Specifications include, but are not limited to: University is in the processing of acquiring Wesley College located in downtown area of Dover, Delaware. If that deal goes through, the final decision of which is expected to be made by June 30, 2021, Wesley College’s needs for Investment Advisory Services - University Endowment Fund might also fall under this contract. However, all of their information can only be provided to the awarded vendor once Wesley College’s acquisition is confirmed. Delaware State University is soliciting proposals for professional work of Investment Advisory Services - University Endowment Fund. In the development of its investment advisory program, the University is looking to balance a desire to maximize investment returns on its portfolio while maintaining a prudent level of risk. a. The investment objective of the equity fund is to outperform by 1% (100 basis points) per annum (net of fees) the S & P 500 on a risk adjusted basis. University also uses MSCI All World equity fund as an additional benchmark for equities. b. The investment objective for the real estate fund is to outperform by 1% (net of fees) the blended “Alternatives” benchmark, adjusted for risk. c. University currently uses Barclays Capital Aggregate for bonds as a benchmark. Bond funds should outperform by 1% (100 basis points) per annum (net of fees) as compared to the benchmark, on a risk adjusted basis. d. The University is interested in an Investment Advisory Services firm that can provide the following services: Investment Policy Statement review and ongoing compliance Asset allocation—per policy Spending policy analysis Manager search and selection On-going performance analysis and evaluation Opportunities for ERG investment Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) On-going communication and review process Relationship with the university providing institutional support for advancement, opportunities for student engagement
