Davenport University Commencement honors graduates and automotive industry leader

Davenport University will celebrate the class of 2025 at its Commencement ceremony on Sunday, April 27 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. Jon Husby, president and CEO of ADAC, will give the commencement address to graduates. 

“Commencement is one of the most exciting times of the year at Davenport, because we get to celebrate our graduates and all of the hard work that led them to this day,” said Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. “The graduates are fortunate to be able to hear from business leader Jon Husby as they mark this milestone and move into careers or promotions. We look at this as a day of beginnings.”

 Husby is being honored for his successful career in the automotive industry, which spans 31 years. Originally from Lansing, Husby has a BA in economics and management from Albion College and an MBA from Wayne State University. He has led Grand Rapids-based ADAC, formerly ADAC Automotive, as its president and CEO since August 2022.

Prior to his position at ADAC, he held executive-level positions at SEG Automotive North America, Harman International, the Automotive Division at TomTom, Tele Atlas and DENSO. He also serves on numerous automotive-related boards.

Throughout his career, Husby has been engaged in the development and early adoption of innovative, high-tech solutions, such as onboard navigation, digital traffic mapping and weight-based occupancy sensors of airbags and seat belts.  

ADAC recently purchased EBW electronics, a move that will allow the expansion of cutting-edge electronics within many industries and increase its West Michigan manufacturing team to over 1000 employees.

Husby will receive an honorary doctorate in business in recognition of his successful and long-term leadership. 

“What an incredible opportunity to be invited to share lessons learned, advice and thoughts with the graduates of Davenport University,” said Husby. “It is a complex world out there. I am hopeful that sharing some of my global learnings can assist these graduates to navigate their journey in an easier and more confident way. I am humbled and excited to participate.”

Husby will be addressing more than 1,300 graduates who range in age from 18 to 69. They come from 31 states and 11 other countries.

“We are pleased that Jon Husby can join us as we celebrate our graduates and share a bit of his vast leadership experience with us,” said Pappas.  

Doors at Van Andel Arena will open at 12:30 p.m. The Commencement ceremony will begin at 2 p.m.

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