Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans across the United States.
Nearly 20% of the nation’s residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, and they operate more than 465,000 businesses that generate about $650 billion each year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. These voices strengthen communities, enrich culture, and continue to shape business and civic life nationwide.
At Comerica, this celebration connects directly to our values. In this article, we put the spotlight on the work of Mi Gente, our Impact Team, then share recognition of Hispanic voices across the bank, and close with stories of colleagues whose leadership reflects resilience and cultural pride.
Hispanic voices enrich communities nationwide through leadership, entrepreneurship and cultural pride.
Comerica’s commitment to Hispanic and Latino inclusion
Comerica has a longstanding record of advancing inclusion. The bank, for example, has previously received the highest rating, five stars in governance, in the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) Corporate Inclusion Index. This recognition reflects a consistent commitment to inclusion in areas such as leadership, employment, and community partnerships.
One way this commitment comes to life inside Comerica is through Mi Gente, our Impact Team. In Spanish, Mi Gente translates to “my people” or “my folks,” a phrase that reflects connection, belonging and pride.
The group’s mission is to build community, empower our culture, attract and retain Hispanic and Latino colleagues across all markets, and to ignite inclusive access in banking for Hispanic and Latino businesses. This is done through events and workshops that build cultural awareness, strengthens trust in business relationships and supports professional advancement and makes a strong impact in the communities Comerica serves.
Importantly, the group is open to all colleagues, including allies, creating opportunities for everyone to celebrate Hispanic culture and support each other.
Through recognition from organizations like HACR and the ongoing work of Mi Gente, Comerica continues to build an environment where Hispanic voices are heard and celebrated.
Mi Gente, Comerica’s Impact Team, works to build community, strengthen culture and cultivate inclusive banking with Hispanic and Latino colleagues and customers across all markets.
Team member spotlights
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor colleagues who bring commitment, heart and heritage to their work every day.
Larry Franco: National Director of Retail & Small Business Banking and Operations | Sugar Land, TX
From his start as a teller in a Phoenix grocery store in 1997 to his current role as Executive Vice President and National Director of Retail & Small Business Banking, Franco has built a career defined by resilience and service. His path through nearly every retail role shaped a leadership style rooted in humility and action.
Larry credits his Latino heritage, with helping him authentically grow his career and support customers. "Speaking Spanish helped me land my first banking role and later connect with hundreds of customers along the Texas-Mexico border."
Today, he focuses on modernizing Comerica’s retail division while laying a foundation for the “retail bank of the future,” one that reflects legacy and innovation. For more, see Larry’s recent feature in Latino Leaders.
"My advice for Latino professionals looking to succeed in banking: pursue education relentlessly, stay on the cutting edge of technology, seek mentors who will challenge you, dream big, and above all, work hard." - Larry Franco
Theresa Bazan: Director of Front Line Division Sales Enablement & Execution | Dallas, TX
A focus on cultural pride, family and community is a core strength Theresa Bazan carries into leadership. Every day, she helps Comerica team members feel ready to serve clients by making sure tools, training and support are clear and connected to banking needs.
As a leader, Theresa is focused on creating spaces where colleagues feel they belong, where voices are heard and where success is celebrated together. Mentorship also plays a central role in her approach. After experiencing the impact of mentors who lifted her up and guided her career, Theresa is committed to offering that same support to others, helping colleagues refine their skills and grow their careers.
“My Hispanic heritage is a source of strength, and I’ve learned that cultural pride is not something to set aside — it’s something to lead with.” - Theresa Bazan
Yolanda Serra: Chair of Mi Gente Impact Team | Small Business Banking Group Manager | Livonia, MI
As Chair of Mi Gente, Yolanda Serra has seen firsthand how cultural awareness promotes a sense of belonging, encourages open dialogue and educates colleagues. Celebrating Hispanic heritage not only deepens understanding, but also strengthens collaboration and sparks innovation.
For Yolanda, leading an Impact Team at Comerica is about building bridges her teammates can walk across, opening the door for connection and career growth. Mi Gente’s influence also extends outward, equipping Comerica to better understand and support Hispanic businesses.
“Celebrating cultural traditions fosters mutual respect and understanding, creating a more cohesive team environment.” - Yolanda Serra
Vanessa Ramos: Banking Center Manager | Los Angeles, CA
As a Banking Center Manager in Los Angeles, Vanessa Ramos works to bridge the financial literacy gap she often sees in the Hispanic community. She understands that factors such as limited access to financial education, differences between U.S. and Latin American banking systems, and a sense of mistrust can create barriers. Her approach is to serve as a trusted resource, providing clear guidance and empowering clients with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions.
By taking the time to understand each client’s goals and concerns — and pairing that with honest, straightforward communication — Vanessa creates lasting relationships rooted in loyalty and respect. She also strives to create memorable customer experiences by combining personal attention with cultural awareness, ensuring that every client feels understood and supported.
“The most important and effective way to build trust is through active listening and transparency.” - Vanessa Ramos
Helena Gutierrez: Small Business Banking Group Manager | Costa Mesa, CA
Being visible and present matters to Helena Gutierrez, who supports Hispanic clients through community involvement and consistent guidance. She stays active through business associations and nonprofit partnerships, while also hosting financial literacy workshops on topics like credit, first-time home buying, retirement planning and small business ownership. These efforts are designed to equip community members with the tools they need to make confident financial decisions and build generational stability.
Helena focuses on simplifying financial topics, explaining the “why” behind each recommendation, and aligning every conversation with her clients’ goals. By approaching each interaction as if she were advising her own family, she creates an environment where clients feel respected and supported at every stage of their financial journey.
“For me, genuine connection starts with empathy. I make it a point to learn about my clients’ stories, their families, and the legacies they want to build.” - Helena Gutierrez
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with us
Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize leadership, strengthen communities and promote culture. Comerica is proud to highlight the actions we are taking and the colleagues whose voices make a difference every day.
Visit the Comerica Insights page to find resources and stories that can help you on your financial path.