Our Supplier Selection Philosophy
Following the model of St. Vincent de Paul who consistently recognized and respected the dignity of each person, DePaul strives to maintain this same recognition and respect for the human person in all its contractual relationships with service providers. DePaul expects that all business units that enter contractual relationships on behalf of the university will take the following principles into consideration:
- Mission Driven - Every contractual arrangement should result in a high-quality educational experience in a competitive higher education marketplace.
- Business Diversity Program - DePaul is committed to a Business Diversity Program that encourages diverse suppliers to participate in its procurement process both at the Tier 1 and Tier 2 level.
- Compliant - DePaul will seek business partners that comply with all applicable laws and regulations designed to prevent discrimination and protect people and the environment.
- Socially Just - DePaul will seek business partners that share its commitment to human rights and social justice, as reflected in the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact*.
- Living Wage - DePaul will seek business partners that share its commitment to establish a living wage**.
- Environmentally Responsible - Businesses should pursue initiatives to promote environmental responsibility and encourage the development of environmentally friendly technologies.
- Gifts - Suppliers must not offer gratuities, entertainment or favors to any university employee who has influence in the procurement decision-making process.
* DePaul University is an academic partner to the UN Global Compact. View more on the Ten Principles.
** DePaul University's definition of the living wage is based on the U.S Department of Health and Human Services' definition of the poverty guideline for a family of four divided by 2,000 hours. However, DePaul also recognizes that there is no single, universally accepted definition of a living wage in the international community. Beyond definition, DePaul upholds Roman Catholic social teaching that wages for all employees must not violate the dignity of the human person and ought to contribute to human flourishing.
Business Diversity Program
For 125 years, DePaul has served a diverse group of learners. We consider diversity to be one of our greatest strengths and strive to create a learning environment that is welcoming to all.
DePaul recognizes the importance of supplier diversity and supports the development, utilization, and economic growth of certified diverse suppliers. Diverse suppliers include businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by women, racial or ethnic minorities, persons with a disability, or veterans.
DePaul encourages diverse suppliers to participate in its procurement process directly as well as indirectly, such as when suppliers use a sub-contractor. DePaul is also committed to a Business Diversity Program that aims to ensure that opportunities exist for such businesses.
Equal Opportunity
DePaul University is an equal opportunity entity, and, as such, strongly encourages the lawful use of certified minority, woman, and/or veteran-business enterprise in the provision of services by providing a fair and equal opportunity to compete for, or for participation in, providing goods and services.
DePaul believes in equal opportunity practices which conform to both the spirit and the letter of all laws against discrimination, and is committed to non-discrimination because of race, creed, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, ability, age, national origin, or religion.