AMERICUS, Ga. — Georgia Southwestern State University Director of Athletics Mike Leeder has announced the hiring of Benjamin Hicks as the department's new Senior Associate Director of Athletics.

Hicks returns to Americus with an extensive background in collegiate athletics administration and coaching, most recently serving as Athletic Director at Chattahoochee Valley Community College.

"We are excited to welcome Ben back to Georgia Southwestern," said Leeder. "He brings a wealth of experience as both a coach and administrator, along with a strong commitment to student-athlete success. His leadership and familiarity with our institution make him a tremendous addition to our department."

During his time at Chattahoochee Valley, Hicks oversaw significant growth across the athletic department. He was named 2022–23 Athletic Director of the Year and helped foster a culture of academic success, with 70 percent of student-athletes earning ACCC Commissioner's Roll honors in Fall 2023. His leadership also included key facility and operational enhancements, such as the construction of a new softball complex, the addition of a full-time athletic trainer, and the launch of an official athletics website to improve communication and visibility.

Hicks initially joined CVCC as head men's basketball coach in 2019 before adding athletic director responsibilities. He earned Alabama Community College Conference South Division Coach of the Year honors in 2021-22, highlighting his impact on the court as well.

No stranger to Georgia Southwestern, Hicks previously served as the Hurricanes' head men's basketball coach from 2016-19, building a reputation for recruiting high-character student-athletes and emphasizing academic achievement.

His coaching résumé also includes stops as an assistant coach at Columbus State University and Jacksonville State University, as well as head coaching and administrative roles at Alabama Southern Community College. Hicks began his collegiate coaching career at CVCC and Middle Georgia College, gaining experience at multiple levels of college athletics.

"I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to return to Georgia Southwestern and join the athletic administration leadership team," Hicks said. "This institution holds a special place for me, and I'm excited to help support our coaches, staff and student-athletes as we continue to build on the strong foundation already in place."

Hicks earned his bachelor's degree from Shorter College and a master's degree in sport and fitness management from Troy University.

Hicks has already begun his duties with the department and will play a key role in the overall leadership and strategic direction of Georgia Southwestern athletics, with a focus on enhancing the student-athlete experience both academically and competitively.