The City Magazine’s September 2025 “Rising Star”
Meet Laura Barron of World’s Finest Chocolate
By: Veronica Nevarez
From PTA parent to business leader, Laura Barron has turned her passion for supporting schools into a career that uplifts the community. With years of fundraising success and a unique customer-first perspective, Barron represents not only a beloved brand but also the spirit of giving back that defines El Paso.
Q&A with Laura Barron
Your industry is thriving with innovation and passion. What first sparked your excitement to step into this career, and what continues to fuel your journey?
What first sparked my interest was when my boys were in elementary school. I was asked to be a part of the school’s PTA. An eleven-year run, raising close to $80,000 every year! Giving back to our school’s community became my passion – and still is.
Every leader brings something special to the table. What fresh perspective or unique voice do you contribute that sets your role apart?
The uniqueness that I bring and that helps set me apart is that I was once the “customer.” Our PTA would run a World’s Finest Chocolate fundraiser and raise enough money to buy laptops for students, build a running track, a new marquee for our school, and anything else the school’s budget couldn’t cover. I know what my customers’ expectations are, which helps me fill their needs.
No great success story comes without hurdles. What challenges have tested your path, and how did you rise above them with strength and creativity?
So many challenges! First year, I knew nothing about running my own business. It was sink or swim, especially with all the behind-the-scenes logistics. Not to mention, Excel spreadsheets that I still haven’t mastered. I find strength in being challenged.
Excellence shines through in your work. How do you consistently raise the bar and create a lasting, positive impact for those you serve?
A positive impact on those I serve comes from confidence. Confidence in knowing that they made the right choice, entrusting you with their business, and proving it.
The industry is constantly evolving. What exciting trends are shaping its future, and how do you stay ahead of the curve to keep innovating?
We can’t stop change, so learning how to keep rolling with it is key. Schools are going cashless, everything is going digital, so you must find ways to stay competitive.
El Paso is a vibrant, close-knit community. How do you personally connect with El Pasoans and give back in ways that truly uplift our city?
I am an El Pasoan, born and raised. Helping schools raise money to give back to students and the community is one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had.
Looking to the future, what inspiring projects or contributions are on the horizon for both you and the El Paso community you so proudly support?
Exciting and bold new ventures are coming this January, including moving away from the $1 bar. The one thing I know is that World’s Finest Chocolate has been a staple in every community for the past 75 years. I intend to proudly represent, while helping to keep a “human connection” by teaching our youth the value of earning a dollar to help give back to their community simply by asking, “Would you like to buy a chocolate to help me raise money for my school?”
“Helping schools raise money to give back to students and the community is one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had.” — Laura Barron
