What did I ever do to deserve this great privilege?” In Mayor Laurie Bianco’s eyes, serving as mayor of what she refers to as her “friends and family” in Dalworthington Gardens (DWG) is one of the greatest blessings in her life. According to Laurie, this gives her the opportunity to give back for all she has been given. Growing up in a small town in North Carolina, Laurie was raised in a family rooted in deep faith, and her parents were pillars in the community. Her daddy was extremely active in civic organizations and modeled patriotism and faith in his every word and action. Her mama was a schoolteacher and was a fully supportive wife and mother to her and her younger brother, John Mark. “My parents raised me with a sense of honor, dignity, and dedication to humankind, making the world a better place than I found it.” Laurie embraced those values and consistently strives to live up to the example that Jack and Pat Swink fundamentally taught their kids.
Following in her mother’s footsteps, Laurie pursued a career in teaching. After a six-year stint in public school teaching stateside, her sense of adventure led her to pursue a job in Genoa, Italy, where she taught third grade and explored the world for seven years. Before going to Italy, she spent time in Osaka, Japan, with Rotary International. Ultimately, she found herself in Texas, where her heart is! She had Emily Grace Bianco when she was 42 and gave up her teaching career to concentrate on her “golden egg,” as Laurie refers to her.
When Laurie reflects back on her life and her life choices, she says she would not change a thing. “We are a product of our life experiences, good, bad, or indifferent and we make choices based on the circumstances at hand. If the circumstances change, then change the decision. Our choices in life are not firmly sealed in concrete. We are only one decision away from changing the whole trajectory of our lives.” According to Laurie, your attitude is key to your success.
She has had the privilege of serving as mayor since 2018 and is dedicated to preserving the city’s unique history and, at the same time, bringing new businesses to the community. Her approach to leadership is characterized by a steadfast belief in fostering the welfare and development of her constituents, with a deeply rooted sense of gratitude at the heart of everything she undertakes. She consistently demonstrates an ability to listen to the members of her community and considers DWG a “concierge” city. Commitment to the citizens is her number one priority because they deserve the best. Under her stewardship, she has strived to develop a sense of family and sees communication as an essential part of leading. Mayor Bianco has set several ambitious goals for her community. One of her primary objectives is to enhance economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs.
She readily boasts about the schools in her city, such as Arlington Classics Academy, Key Elementary, and The Montessori School. She also aims to strengthen community engagement by encouraging volunteerism and civic participation. Raising future leaders is fundamental to the success of our country. Giving back through service to others not only helps the person on the receiving end but also boosts mental health. When we focus on others, our own self-centered desires are diminished. Mayor Bianco’s leadership style emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration. She believes in bringing people together to work towards common goals, such as fostering a strong sense of unity and community spirit. Her open-door policy has made her approachable and accessible, ensuring that every member of the community feels heard and valued. 
Often reserved in discussing her personal strengths, Laurie possesses a natural charisma and the ability to inspire those around her. She strives to have her superpowers demonstrated by loving on others, demonstrating kindness, and being compassionate. She is quick to tell you that she loves you and generously shares a hug when she sees you. Forgiveness is another one of her strengths. She easily forgives, often too much, but for her, this is a gift she gives herself. She can bear the burdens of others but will not carry the weight of a heavy heart. The gift of encouragement helps her lead others to achieve their fullest potential, another way that she defines success. She readily admits her weaknesses, as well.
By nature, Laurie is a people pleaser. “Leadership: Above and Beyond,” taught by the instructors at the National Medal of Honor Museum, is a course she is currently enrolled in. The participants were asked to dig deep into themselves and introspectively evaluate where they excel and where they need to improve. Laurie walked away knowing that she needed to improve her ability to have difficult conversations, taking the focus away from personal relationships and focusing on what is most important for the organization. She quickly admits her sugar addiction, as well. The struggle is real. In her own words, “Some days I drive the “sugar bus” and stay in the passing lane. Other days when the cravings are too strong, I drive the “struggle bus” into the ditch, the wheels fall off, and I need a wrecker service to get me out of the ditch.” We all have our challenges, and it is better to confront them and strive to be the best version of ourselves. Every day gives us a chance for a new beginning.
Family plays a pivotal role in Laurie’s life. She draws immense strength and support from her loved ones, who have been her pillars throughout her journey. Her family values have shaped her into the compassionate and empathetic leader she is today. She credits her family for teaching her the importance of resilience, integrity, and service to others. It goes without saying that her daughter, Emily, is her pride and joy. Laurie will soon join the empty nesters but is strategically making a plan to fill that void when Emily goes to college. Her passion for travel, theater, music, and different cultures are interests she wants to pursue.
Faith is a cornerstone of Mayor Bianco’s life, and she is active in Fielder Church. Her belief in God provides her with guidance and strength, especially during challenging times. She often speaks about how her faith inspires her to lead with compassion, humility, forgiveness, and a sense of purpose. It is this deep spiritual foundation that drives her dedication to serving her community and making a positive impact. It is her greatest desire to live her faith through not only her words but through loving acts of kindness.
Laurie is a member of Rotary, serves on the Salvation Army Advisory Council, and also serves on the Higher Education Servicing Corporation. Embracing the Rotarian’s motto, “Service Before Self,” is fundamental. Let us all seek ways to serve others first and live each day as if it were our last. As Stephen Sondheim crafted in the lyrics of “Into the Woods,” “Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor.” Take chances, embrace your superpowers, conquer your fears, and make this world a better place by sharing your gifts with others.
