HOWELL, MI--(Marketwired - May 16, 2016) - Cleary University today announced that Kevin Clark, founder and CEO of Critter Control, and Adam Genei, founder of Mobsteel and Detroit Steel Wheel Company, will serve as keynote speakers at the institution's commencement ceremony on May 21, 2016 from 10:00 am-Noon. During the ceremony, Cleary will also recognize Clark and Genei with honorary doctorate degrees, the highest honor of distinction awarded by the university. The degrees are given to accomplished leaders who support and embrace the university's mission to enrich students' lives through the knowledge, skills, and credentials that advance careers. The ceremony will conclude a weekend of activities on campus, including Vehicle to a Better Future, Cleary's signature event on May 19, 2016 that will raise funds for new teaching and learning tools.
In addition to awarding Genei and Clark with honorary degrees, Cleary will also honor several other individuals for their contributions and achievements, including:
- Friedt Medallion: Adam Genei
- Company Innovation Award: Brandy Galea-Hertrich
- President's Award: Subhendu "Sid" Mahapatra
- Vince Linder Teaching Award: Margaret "Maggie" Lourdes
- Vince Linder Teaching Award: Margaret "Marge" Wisniewski
"We appreciate the passion that Adam and Kevin have for entrepreneurship and the business community, and are excited to have them share their enthusiasm and expertise with our graduating class," said Jayson Boyers, president of Cleary University. "I have no doubt that their dynamic stories will resonate with our student body, and create a memorable experience for everyone in attendance at our commencement ceremony. They embody the Cleary ideal of building great, and we appreciate their support for this event."
In 1983, Clark founded Critter Control, the world's leading wildlife control firm with more than 100 franchises in North America. He comes from a long line of educators -- his father, two brothers, and both of his sisters-in-law are all teachers. Following in his family's footsteps, he served as president of the Treasure Village Montessori Charter School Board in the Florida Keys for seven years. He was an all-state wrestler in high school, and currently coaches high school wrestling.
"I'm honored to give Cleary's commencement address, and join Cleary University's graduating class of 2016," said Clark. "I've had the opportunity to spend some time learning about Cleary, its leaders, mission, and the excitement for what is happening on campus and in the community. As an entrepreneur, it's an honor to be associated with a university that takes pride in developing the next generation of great business minds."
Raised in Livingston County, Genei developed his love of cars from his grandfather's Lincoln dealership. After years of working different jobs he decided to make a split and turn his hobby of fixing up cars into a business. He sold the first Mobsteel Lincoln Continental for $13,000 in eight hours. From there, the business exploded. Today, Mobsteel is a car-restoration business and reality TV show that has Genei leading his team of custom-car specialists modifying cars for athletes, movie stars and even Ford.
"We have scratched and clawed to make Mobsteel and Detroit Steel Wheel Company successful businesses, so I appreciate Cleary recognizing our team with the Friedt Medal for all of the dedication and hard work," said Genei.
The Friedt Medal recognizes a successful businessperson who has exhibited innovation, dedication, hard work and ethical business principles. The Friedt Medal was created in 1986 by the Friedt family on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the graduation of Glenn Friedt Sr. from Cleary University.
Tickets for Vehicle to a Better Future are available to the public for $75 per ticket or $500 for a table at Cleary.edu/Vehicle or by calling 800.686.1883.
About Cleary University
Founded in 1883, the foundation of Cleary University is business. Cleary University is committed to its mission to enrich students' lives through the knowledge, skills, and credentials that advance careers.
Private, nonprofit, and accredited, Cleary University is a specialized business university, providing practical, project-based education enabling an immediate alumni contribution to employers, families, and communities. Cleary offers a full service campus in Livingston County and satellite campuses throughout Michigan, as well as online degree options. For more information visit cleary.edu.
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