Policy Expert, Educator, and Researcher - Asia
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Hi, I'm Kevin, and my 16+ year journey from a Fulbright scholar to public policy expert and award-winning educator at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has been both challenging and rewarding.
I kickstarted my career in Chicago after being recruited by the late Marvin Zonis, a distinguished professor at the University of Chicago's Graduate School of Business, as a political-risk consultant for my deep familiarity with global affairs - particularly Southeast Asian politics.
After a brief stint in the corporate world, working for one of the Big Five accounting firms, I earned my PhD in political science from the University of Wisconsin, with a focus on international relations (global governance, international law) and comparative politics (political economy, sustainable development, democratic transitions and elections in Southeast Asia). I later applied many theoretical insights from graduate school in practice by serving as an UN-accredited international election observer in East Timor (Timor-Leste).
These experiences fueled my passion in bridging academic and policy circles to offer practical solutions to contemporary issues. It also deeply shaped my interests in socio-economic development and labour issues - especially global migration - in Southeast Asia.
Ultimately, I landed at NUS, the region's premier university, where I have had the privilege to conduct research with exceptional colleauges and teach some of the brightest minds in the world. During my tenure at NUS, I have earned several teaching awards and mentored numerous students.
My research has not only focused on improving student learning during experiential activities, but it has also contributed to the area of socio-economic development and migration - enabling me to become one of the region's experts in human trafficking and forced migration (featured at times in the mass media).
In sum, I am driven by a relentless curiosity and commitment to making a difference. Whether it's through conferences, classrooms, or media consultations, I strive to contribute to meaningful and critical discussions and solutions for some of the biggest issues facing the region - including AI and governance.
#Letsconnect! I am always open to new opportunities and collaborations. I am able to work in Singapore (Long-term Pass) and US (Citizen) - both on site and remotely. Feel free to contact me.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Political Science
University of Wisconsin – Madison • US
Master of Arts – Political Science
University of Illinois – Chicago • US
Bachelor of Arts – Political Science
University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign • US
