Joe’s journey to the heart of Jesus led him through challenges and experiences that have enriched his life and strengthened his faith. With the love of a friend, Joe’s heart for others to discover a relationship with Jesus influences his actions each day.

As an accomplished athlete, Joe played nose tackle for the SMU Mustangs before coaching the defensive line at Texas A&M. In 2009, SMU honored Joe as an Outstanding Alumni and Emerging Leader.

Joe has been awarded two honorary Doctoral degrees and has written more than 20 books. He’s also been named one of the ‘Top Ten Influencers of the Century’ by New Man Magazine.

Joe and his wife, Debbie-Jo, reside in Branson, MO.

Dr. Joe White has had the honor of being selected to receive the Missourian Award—a prestigious recognition acknowledging the most accomplished citizens in the state of Missouri.

Joe White has dedicated his life to serving and equipping next generation leaders across the nation and even around the world. While he’s not spending time at Kamp, Joe travels as a national speaker for women’s and men’s conferences, professional sports teams and more. He has started international outreach missions such as Kanakuk Haiti and Kanakuk Lebanon. Joe has also authored more than 20 books about leadership, faith training and navigating the ups and downs of everyday life.

For more than 75 years, the White family has served in leadership at Kanakuk Kamps in Branson, Missouri.

In 1955, Spike and Darnell White, Joe’s parents, purchased Kanakuk, and in 1976, passed the baton to Joe and Debbie-Jo.

Under Joe’s leadership, Kanakuk has grown to a family of ministries which makes an impact on the lives of tens of thousands of people around the world each year.