He holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science from Rutgers University, and a B.A. in American Studies from Baylor University. He has taught fulltime on the faculties of Rutgers University, Spring Hill College, and Fort Hays State University. A Senior Fellow at the Center for Civic Leadership at Fort Hays State University, Hamlin is also the leadership coach for students in FHSU's Honors College. His scholarship, teaching, and service have received awards, and he has been the recipient of grants for research and for educational development. As a writer, educator, consultant and coach, he focuses on civic renewal, leadership, and expanded narratives of public life.