Roseville resident named 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 nominee

MACOMB COUNTY — Whether Karen Avila is working at her corporate job for Comerica Bank or helping clients at the company she founded, AG Signing Services, the Roseville resident always tries to accomplish two goals: uplifting those around her and making a difference.

Others have noticed Avila’s dedication and work when it comes to financial and legal matters. She was recently named one of the 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 Nominees by the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce. Avila learned of the award through a letter from Kelley Lovati, Macomb County Chamber CEO and president, and Jon Furest, president, NextGen Young Professionals.

“This prestigious award program celebrates the exceptional achievements and contributions of dynamic individuals under the age of 40. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and impact within their respective fields and communities,” the letter states. “Through this initiative, we aim to recognize and honor the next generation of leaders, like you, who are shaping the future and making a significant impact in their industries and beyond. By highlighting your accomplishments, we hope to inspire others and foster a culture of excellence, ambition and positive changes.”

Avila and the other recipients were recognized during a dinner and ceremony Nov. 21 at the Palazzo Grande in Shelby Township. Avila received a desk plaque award and certificates from U.S. Rep. John James and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

“I was incredibly excited,” Avila, 31, said. “It was unexpected. Having this recognition solidifies the work (I’m doing) each day.”

That includes her position as senior internal auditor with Comerica Bank, where she conducts financial and operational audits across the bank’s footprint. The young professional also serves as the social impact chair for Comerica’s Women’s Forum Employee Resource Group, where she spearheads community outreach initiatives designed to empower women in the workplace and the community. The group has volunteered with Alternatives For Girls, HOPE Shelters and the Red Dot Project.

Avila, too, is the founder of AG Signing Services. Based in Macomb County, the mobile notary business provides services to seniors, homebound individuals and underserved communities. Avila grew up in a bilingual household and speaks English and Spanish, and is an interpreter for Spanish-speaking clients.

“A lot of the clients are seniors in assisted living or hospitals. Oftentimes getting to a bank or credit union is not the most ideal,” Avila said. “As the population is starting to age, they are no longer able to leave their homes. A lot of them depend on caregivers who work 9 to 5.”

Avila started AG Signing Services two years ago when she saw there was “a gap in notary services” for senior citizens and non-English-speaking clients. The company offers assistance with wills, banking, court documents, citizenship paperwork and other legal documents. AG Signing Services collaborates with real estate agencies, hospitals, health care providers, legal aid organizations, nonprofit groups and caregivers.

Avila’s parents, Robert and Veronica, were both born in Mexico and spoke English and Spanish in the family home to Avila and her brother, Alex. She also took courses while in high school and college. Her parents also taught her “the value of education and importance of hard work.”

Avila attended Roseville Community Schools, graduating from Roseville High School in 2012. One teacher who stood out for her was her second grade teacher, Ms. Gammichia.

“She made me feel welcome,” Avila said. “She ignited this passion for reading and learning that I carry to this day.”

While at RHS, another teacher who inspired her was Ms. Welc. In her class Avila learned an appreciation for accounting and business.

“I found her very caring,” Avila said. “The lessons I learned from both teachers academically and personally left an imprint.”

The 2024 Inaugural 40 Under 40 Nominee has an associate degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Baker College. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in human resources management and finance and is studying for the Certified Internal Auditor exam.