The Hispanic community has lost a tremendous leader, advocate, and friend – Monica L. Martinez

websitebuilder • May 25, 2021

The Hispanic community has lost a tremendous leader, advocate, and friend –

Monica L. Martinez

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our dear friend Monica L. Martinez.


Monica was the Senior Vice President, External Affairs – Michigan Market and the National Director of Hispanic Business Development for Comerica Bank, and was an active member of the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, most recently serving as Corporate Vice-Chair on the board of directors. A Michigan native born in Southwest Detroit, Monica learned the traditions of her Mexican heritage and was taught Spanish from a young age by her grandmother, who emigrated from Mexico. She carried out this love for her culture and the Spanish language throughout her career.


Monica joined Comerica Bank in 2006, holding several positions during her tenure. She was instrumental in managing business resource groups on a national level at Comerica, supporting the on-going diverse business development in the communities across the country. She also oversaw volunteer programs nationwide, teaching both students and small business owners the importance of being financially responsible. Whether it was attending evening events, speaking engagements, or giving remarks on a panel for numerous nonprofits and charities, Monica’s involvement in the community and philanthropic activities was undeniable and an inspiration to all.


“At Comerica, Monica was entrusted to expand what had been a local diversity engagement position into a nationwide role. She did so with energizing success and started to represent Comerica at the most prestigious Latino organizations. She had a story to tell and a mission to make her Latino community a better place. It is important to mention that as Monica became a nationwide ambassador for Comerica, she always kept her local presence as strong as ever.” – Camilo Suero, Corporate Relations, Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.


Prior to her work with Comerica Bank, Monica worked for Ford Motor Company, where she held various positions on the corporate staff during her 10-year tenure. Suero continues, “Monica Martinez will be remembered as a passionate, engaged and visionary leader with restless dedication to advancing the Latino community in her city and across our country. From the start of her career at Ford Motor Company, she was an active member of Ford’s ERG (Employee Resource Group), Ford Hispanic Network, where she took on many responsibilities for one of the leading ERGs in the nation. Her busy work schedule was never a barrier to volunteer, leading events with her beautiful smile and warm friendship.”


In addition to her leadership role on the board of directors of the MHCC, Monica served on the board of the Girl Scouts of the USA National Board Development Committee, New Detroit, the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition, SER Jobs for Progress National and Girl Scouts of Southeast Michigan Hispanic Advisory Committee.


“Monica was a remarkable professional, selfless mentor and friend, and a tireless advocate for the Latino community in Detroit, the State of Michigan, and the country. Monica, an immensely private woman wouldn’t want us to be sad, so I celebrate her legacy with a renewed and enhanced resolve to serve the Michigan Latino community. Won’t you join me in carrying on her legacy in the Latino Community?” – JoAnn Chávez, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, DTE Energy, and Former Chair of Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.


Monica’s accomplishments in the workplace and Hispanic community were well recognized throughout her career. She received numerous awards and honors for service as both an accomplished woman and Latina business leader, including being named one of the Top 10 Latina Women in Corporate America by Latino Leaders Magazine, Diversity Business Leader by Corp. Magazine, and one of the 100 most influential Hispanics in the U.S. by Hispanic Business Magazine. The recognitions she received for community service include being named a role model by Alternatives for Girls, honored as "One Tough Cookie" honoree by the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan, and included among Women that Soar for her dedication to mentoring.


“Monica is an icon in the Hispanic community. She was a person that always asked how she could do more for her people. She was a leader to be followed by women and men. She inspired others to ask themselves how they could do more for their community. The world has lost a great light. My friend Monica has left behind a legacy and we all must follow her lead. ¡Adelante! We are all better off because she shined her light on us!” – Jesse Venegas, Vice President, The Ideal Group, and Chair of Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.


“Monica’s efforts to support young professionals and serve Hispanic business owners, entrepreneurs and communities have had a tremendous impact on the lives of so many here in Michigan and other parts of our nation. Though we mourn her loss, we honor her by remembering her commitment to lifting others up, her passion for excellence, and her deep, deep love for her Mexican heritage and the Hispanic community. Thank you, Monica for all that you gave and all that you represented.” – Mark Moreno, Executive Director, Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.


Friends may visit the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth on Monday, May 31, 2021 from 2:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. There will be a rosary service beginning at 7:00 P.M.


The Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 47650 North Territorial Road, Plymouth. She will be in-state at 9:00 A.M. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 9:30 A.M.


For those who cannot attend and wish to view the Funeral Service in a safe environment, the funeral will be live streamed.

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In Loving Memory of Hon. Isidore B. Torres

By Admin • January 20, 2021
The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce would like to share its condolences to the Torres family on the loss of Judge Isidore Torres. A long-standing member of the Board of Directors, as well as General Counsel to the MHCC, Judge Torres was an inspirational mentor and leader.  Jesse Venegas, Board Chair of MHCC and mentee of Isidore, commented on the legacy of Judge Torres. “Isidore served the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with honor and distinction as he did in all his endeavors. I fondly remember him as a person that would engage in conversation with anyone, and always spoke his mind. He is part of a generation of Michigan Hispanics that broke many barriers, and we all stand on the shoulders of his work.” Judge Torres was born in Bay City, Michigan. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Michigan State University and received his Juris Doctor Degree from Wayne State University. Before taking the bench, he co-founded the Torres and Horvath law firm. He later became a Senior Assistant Corporation Council for the City of Detroit where he was involved in major litigation of state and federal cases. Judge Torres became a 36th District Court for the City of Detroit; in 1988, he was appointed to the Detroit Recorder's Court where he heard felony criminal trials until 1997 when the court merged and became the Wayne County Third Circuit Court, Criminal Division. In 1997, Judge Torres transferred to the Wayne County Third Circuit Court, Civil Division. During his tenure, he was the Presiding Judge, the chief settlement judge for the Wayne County Third Circuit Court, Civil Division and sat as a visiting judge for the Michigan Court of Appeals. He retired from the bench in 2010. In 2010, Torres established the Law Offices of Isidore B. Torres. He served as the General Counsel for the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Chairperson of its Public Policy Committee and Governance Committee. He received numerous awards and acknowledgments recognizing his contributions throughout his legal career.

COVID-19 Information and Support

By websitebuilder • March 19, 2020
While the Coronavirus is halting activities or forcing businesses and their employees to operate remotely across our state and country, we want to make information available to our members and communities, seeking to serve wherever and however possible. "We are reaching out to our business partners and stakeholders of Michigan’s Hispanic community, and personally communicating with each one of our members to help ensure they are receiving up to date information and are served during and after this health crisis," said Mark Moreno, MHCC Executive Director. "We want to do our part to help minimize the economic impact that this crisis will have across our membership, communities and state," added Moreno. The MHCC is posting relevant information to its website (mhcc.org) and to its other social media networks (Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram), so its members and associated companies have better tools to withstand the economic crisis due to the spread of the virus. “We want to be another channel to aid HBE’s (Hispanic Business Enterprises) in obtaining updated information regarding state and federal government resources being made available to small businesses and their employees, unemployment options, options for working remotely, etc.,” concluded Moreno. If you have questions about this information or resources, would like help navigating them, or have other concerns, please do not hesitate to email us or call us directly. The MHCC is here to help in this time of crisis and difficulty. Mark Moreno Executive Director 248-230-2935 Dina F Wagner Director of Membership and Programming 248-639-7725 Camilo Suero Sales Executive 248-792-2763 RESOURCES AVAILABLE • State of Michigan Response to COVID-19 • State of Michigan: Coronavirus for Employers and Workers • State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Work Share Program • State of Michigan: Unemployment Insurance Agency Fact Sheet • Small Business Administration: Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19 • Official CDC Recommendations for Small Businesses • OSHA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19 • A Toolkit for Economic Recovery and Resiliency: Leadership in Times of Crisis • US Chamber Foundation Corporate Aid Tracker • USCC Customizable Workplace Flyer • TechTown Detroit Small Business Stabilization Fund • DTE Suspends Shutoffs / Extends Senior Program in Response to COVID-19 What Can You Do Now? It is imperative that employers maintain open communication with their employees. Employers should ensure that they have updated contact information for current employees and stay informed of the latest news. Encourage employees with acute respiratory illnesses to stay home Separate sick employees Emphasize cough and sneeze etiquette and hand hygiene Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.) It’s not too late to get your flu shot! ***While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.*** Tips and Tricks for Working From Home As more and more companies implement work-from-home policies due to the spread of COVID-19, employees are now tasked with trying to be just as productive without their normal resources and routines. While working from home sounds like a luxury in theory, it's certainly no vacation and being productive is easier said than done. Here are a few tips to try and make working from home as productive as possible. Get Started Early Create a Morning Routine Set Ground Rules with the People in Your Space Schedule Breaks Take Breaks in Their Entirety Leave Home for a Breather Don't Hesitate to Ask for What You Need Keep a Dedicated Office Space Maintain a Separate Phone Number or Email for Work Use a VPN Socialize with Colleagues Virtually "Show Up" to Meetings and Be Heard Get Face Time- your camera creates accountability Take Sick Days if You are Sick Look for Training Opportunities Over Communicate Be Positive Don't be Too Hard on Yourself End Your Day With a Routine

In Loving Memory of Carmen Muñoz

By Admin • February 29, 2020
The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce would like to share its condolences to the Muñoz and Crites families on the loss of their Madrina, Carmen Muñoz. Carmen was a Southwest Detroit Icon, Latina Entrepreneur and community builder. Carmen was born in SW Detroit, educated at Holy Redeemer, and worked in the automotive industry. She worked at a machining supplier and learned all facets of the business for 27 years. Following years of working in the automotive industry, Carmen established her own company, Muñoz Machine Products. Driven to lead, Carmen bought out her business partners and continued to grow Muñoz Machine Products. Her business was known for excellent quality, competitive pricing and developing the communities she operated in. Muñoz Machine Products was recognized with numerous quality awards from companies like Ford Motor Company and General Motors. In 1989, Carmen was one of the founders of the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She was also inducted into the Michigan Minority Business Hall of Fame.

The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Announces Mark Moreno as Executive Director

By Admin • January 7, 2020
The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is excited to introduce and welcome Mr. Mark Moreno as its new Executive Director. In this new role, Moreno will report directly to the governing board of directors. A Michigan native, Moreno comes to the MHCC as an accomplished supply chain executive, specializing in global procurement and supplier development. He is the president and owner of M2 Integrating, LLC, created to help entrepreneurs and visionaries integrate the major functions of their businesses. His leadership provides the mentoring and problem-solving tools needed to take companies to the next level. Prior to starting M2 Integrating, Moreno completed a twenty-one-year career with American Axle & Manufacturing, where he held numerous executive leadership positions in key business and procurement functions. In his most recent role, Moreno was the director of procurement for the driveshaft manufacturing operations, responsible for leading global initiatives on supplier development, contract negotiations, strategic sourcing and productivity improvements. He conducted business in twenty-five countries, supporting supply chain activities and product launches worldwide. Moreno completed two expatriate assignments over six years in Guanajuato, Mexico, with leading roles in procurement, human resources and program management. He also proved instrumental in the company’s board of directors first visit to its Mexican operations, organized and hosted its first Annual Supplier Day outside of the U.S., and was honored to give the commencement address for the University Tec de Monterrey, Irapuato Campus. Moreno began his professional career with defense contractor General Dynamics, honing his procurement and supply chain abilities across government programs in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Egypt. He would later take his Spanish skills to Condumex, Inc., a subsidiary of Mexican conglomerate Grupo Carso. At Condumex, he led the procurement activities for the alternative energy businesses in Mexico, companies that included Telmex, Nacel, and Industrias IEM. Moreno obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from Wittenberg University in Spanish and Business Administration. He is the president of the corporation for Grace Church in White Lake, MI, where he has actively served on the Board of Elders for more than twenty years. He and his wife Marcie live in Clarkston, MI and have three grown children. “We are very excited to announce that Mark will be leading the chamber into the next decade! We conducted an extensive search process and had great finalists. Mark’s experience, business acumen and great character will be invaluable to the Chamber and its members. On behalf of all the Board and the Hispanic Business community, please help me in welcoming Mark to the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.” said Jesse Venegas, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the MHCC. “I am very blessed and excited to lead the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The chamber has a tremendous thirty-year legacy whose membership reflects the diversity and incredible entrepreneurial spirit of Hispanic owned businesses across the state.” Mark said in a statement. “I’m eager to work with the staff and board to further enhance our value to our members and Hispanic community, as we seek to help provide an even greater economic impact in the state.”
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