Bon Voyage Spotlight

As the sun sets on an illustrious 11 and a half-year career at Health Services of North Texas (HSNT), Larry Bisno leaves an indelible mark on the organization, his colleagues, and the communities touched by his dedication to living the mission. "I came here 11 and a half years ago. It's hard to leave, and I hope it continues to be sustainable and never goes away," he reflects. Larry's career trajectory was anything but conventional, a reflection of his adventurous spirit and relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Born and raised in a family where volunteerism and compassion were woven into the fabric of daily life, Larry credits his mother as the most influential person in shaping his values. In a candid interview, he shared anecdotes of her pioneering work with Planned Parenthood in the 1950s, challenging societal norms and advocating for women's rights and family planning when such topics were taboo. Larry's mother's dedication to volunteerism and healthcare, whether in the U.S. or abroad, planted the seeds that would later blossom into his own commitment to service.

Before entering the non-profit and NGO world, Larry began working at an international ad agency in New York City as a young man. Starting in the mail room, those who were paying attention saw his intrinsic value and intelligence. There was a position open for a trainee and they were able to coax him out of his initial plans of working and living on an Australian sheep station for a year. Instead of moving to Australia, He ended up staying in New York for six years, never making it to Australia until he had two pre-teen daughters.

Later in his professional journey, Larry departed from the corporate world, realizing that he could simultaneously earn a living and make a meaningful impact. This pivotal moment marked his transition into the realm of international development and relief efforts, an experience that brought a profound sense of fulfillment, unlike his earlier days at the ad agency. Each shift in his career trajectory contributed to a deepened understanding of the world. Upon joining HSNT, Larry brought with him a wealth of knowledge that played a role in shaping the organization's growth. His role at HSNT evolved from traditional development to pioneering new business strategies, showcasing his adaptability and strategic thinking. Reflecting on his life path, Larry's diverse experiences, spanning both international and corporate spheres, cultivated a multifaceted skill set, uniquely equipping him to navigate and overcome the challenges faced by HSNT.

Larry's life philosophy has guided his professional journey and personal fulfillment. "Worry less about money and try to find something that makes you feel whole and complete as a person. It doesn't matter why it does, but feeling complete is what you need," he advises, emphasizing the importance of well-being and the belief that personal satisfaction transcends financial success.

When asked what he believes to be an invaluable skill that has contributed the most to his success in life, Larry emphasized the importance of critical thinking. "If you can think, problem-solve, you can do anything you want."

As Larry begins to transition into retirement, he does not plan on stopping. He shared his joy of cooking and interest in taking culinary classes, continuing consulting, and participating in boards for non-profits he believes in. As he reflects on his time at HSNT and the transitions he navigated in his career, retirement, for Larry, is not just an endpoint but a new chapter, an opportunity to explore uncharted territories.

HSNT holds a special place in Larry's heart, and his dedication goes beyond the professional realm; it is deeply personal. "I am so blessed that this is my last stop for 11 and a half years before retirement. I don't think I could have been happier," Larry says. For him, HSNT's significance lies in its role of providing crucial healthcare services to communities that need it the most. "HSNT matters because it's a safety net," Larry explains, recognizing the organization's sincere mission and the impact it has on tens of thousands of people's lives.

This is not merely the end of a chapter but a celebration of a career replete with diverse experiences, continuous learning, and a profound dedication to making a positive impact. As he embarks on this new journey, the legacy of Larry Bisno will undoubtedly continue to inspire those at HSNT and beyond. His footsteps leave an imprint not only on the organizational landscape but on the hearts of those fortunate enough to have shared in his journey. Larry is a testament to a life well-lived and a career devoted to the service of others. Cheers to a remarkable professional and a truly exceptional individual!