Carla earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, enhancing her expertise through annual continuing education and compliance training. She began her career in 1991 in a support role at PaineWebber, Inc., where a kind mentor encouraged her to enroll in the company’s 401K and ignited her passion for helping others build their financial futures. Over her 30-year tenure in financial services, Carla honed her skills by working alongside top advisors and became a fully licensed professional dedicated to client education and personalized financial planning. After various roles focused on empowering clients, she joined Dan and the team 14 years ago while at UBS Financial Services, Inc., where her proactive approach and genuine relationship-building have solidified her status as an industry leader.

Outside of work, Carla is committed to servant leadership, volunteering with organizations like Empowered Minds, Inc., where she serves as a Board Member and Program Leader. She also supports the Salvation Army Royal Oak Citadel program for seniors and participates in Money Matters For Youth, a financial literacy camp. Additionally, as a member of her church, she contributes to various ministries, including Co-Chairing Women’s Day Seasons for 2024-26. Carla is the proud mother of Noah, an electrical trade school student. She has become an ardent advocate for the bully breeds after having known the gentle, loving nature of her American bulldog/pit bull mix rescue, Bernadette. Despite Bernadette’s recent passing, the profound bond she shared with her family left an indelible mark on Carla, empowering her to easily challenge the common misconceptions about the breed.

Fun Facts

Alumnus History: I’m a proud second-generation graduate of Cass Technical High School in Detroit, alongside my son, a third-generation grad. We share alum status with many Great Lakes clients, Fortune 500 CEOs, and iconic figures like Lily Tomlin and Diana Ross. Every CT alum will tell you: Cass Technical High School is “Second to None!”
Hobbies: My passions include urban ballroom dancing and line hustling, with salsa on my to-learn list. I recently began a sewing class at the Farmington Hills rec center and aim to crochet next.
Soft Spot: An animal lover at my core, I’ve always rescued dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, a couple of fish, and a turtle too.
Memory from the 80’s: After hours of waiting, my cousin, college roommate, and I were among the last chosen for The Arsenio Hall Show audience, with my cousin landing a spot in the famous “dog pound.”