Ann Arbor, Mich. (July 7, 2023) ­– The Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) at the University of Michigan announces the appointment of Allen Hicken, professor of political science, as its interim director starting July 1, 2023.

CSEAS is thankful for Professor Mike McGovern’s leadership through the previous year and wishes him a productive sabbatical for AY 23-24. 

Professor Hicken previously served as CSEAS director from 2010-2013. He also currently serves as chair of the Thai Studies Committee. 

Professor Hicken received his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, his MA in international affairs from Columbia University, and his Ph.D. in political science/international relations and Pacific studies from the University of California San Diego.

Professor Hicken recently co-produced a manuscript, Mobilizing for Elections Patronage and Political Machines in Southeast Asia, with Edward Aspinall, Australian National University; Meredith L. Weiss, State University of New York; and Paul D. Hutchcroft, Australian National University, published by Cambridge University Press in 2022.