Laura Hine

Laura Hine is a tireless advocate for excellence in public schools and providing all children – regardless of background, income level, academic ability or geography – with a top-notch education.

The St. Petersburg mother of two left her position as Executive Director of the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art to focus fully on improving her sons’ public elementary school. That school, rated a “D” by the state 10 years ago, steadily climbed the rankings to receive its first “A” grade in 2024.

In 2020, Hine’s passion for exceptional education for all students fueled her decision to run for a seat on the Pinellas County School Board. She won that election and was reelected for a second term in 2024. She currently serves as Chair of the Board.

Hine founded the non-profit Educating Florida’s Future in 2025 to advocate for PreK-12 education policy and funding, create strength and excellence in public schools, and support all Florida students and communities.

Born and raised in Tampa, Hine attended local public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. She attended the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, earning a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. She served in the U.S. Navy for six years as a surface warfare officer, completing two deployments to the Middle East.

Returning to Florida in 2003, she earned a commercial general contractor’s license and later, an MBA in finance and international business. As a general contractor, she worked on design-build projects, including the Southwest Airlines terminal at Tampa International Airport. In 2015, she became project director for the new James Museum in downtown St. Petersburg and upon its completion, served as its first Executive Director. 

She is married to Hank Hine, Executive Director of The Dali Museum. Together, they have two sons, who attend Pinellas County public schools, two grown children and two grandchildren.