Joanne Lyles White

Who was Joanne Lyles White?

Lillian Joanne Lyles White, known as Joanne White, was an American philanthropist, teacher, humanitarian, and social entrepreneur from Alexandria in Rapides Parish, who founded and co-founded several non-profit organizations and service agencies in Central Louisiana, including Angel Care, the Hope House, the Shepherd Center, Rapides Parish Habitat for Humanity, the Central Louisiana Food Bank, Care and Share, and Christmas Cheer for Children. Mrs. White was a founding member and first President of the Louisiana High School Speech League and the Tournament of Champions. Mrs. White also helped to create the Kuumba Center, the Wally White Lecture Series, and Aiken Option School. In 2011, following her death, White was specifically commended as one of "Louisiana's finest daughters" by the Louisiana House of Representatives.