INTRODUCTION
Dr. Bivens (PhD, Northern Illinois University) is a scholar of international relations and comparative politics. His research interests include diplomacy, international organizations, comparative regionalism, sub-Saharan African politics, Southeast Asia politics, postcolonial relations, and global LGBTQ+ human rights. His work has been published in outlets such as the Journal of Peace Research, Africa Today, Pacific Affairs, and Qualitative Multi-Methods Research. He has also received awards from organizations such as the American Political Science Association (APSA). His current book project is centered on the role of identity formed in regional organizations and how that identity shapes domestic norms.
At EIU, Dr. Bivens teaches courses on subjects relating to international relations, comparative politics, and public policy. This includes special topics such as the politics of developing nations, comparative regionalism, gender and sexuality, and public policy analysis.