Martial arts have been around the world for centuries, accompanied by various techniques of fighting, religious views and origins.

Michael White took his first lesson in Korean TaeKwonDo in 1982 when he was 12, and continued to pursue his passion for martial arts by founding the Wayne State College Karate Club in 1990.

After graduating, he opened up what is now the fastest growing and largest Martial Arts School in Northwest Iowa.

The White Tiger.

Throughout the years he has taught courses in self-defense, women’s assault prevention and traditional Asian martial arts.

In this year’s 31st annual Women of Excellence recognition banquet, White received the Men of Excellence award along with six female Siouxlanders who were recognized with other awards for leadership, character and accomplishments.

The event was held at the Sioux City Convention Center on March 24 as a fundraiser for Women Aware, a United Way of Siouxland agency who provides supportive services for individuals and families to increase their self-sufficiency.

White’s dedication to training hundreds of women and girls in martial arts including sexual assault and abduction prevention sparked Karen Mackey, Maureen Carrigg and Molly Hunter to nominate him for the award.

He holds both a Baccalaureate in Communication and Master of Science degree in education from Wayne State College. He is currently in the pursuance of his Doctoral degree in Adult and Higher Education from the University of South Dakota.

He also lectures on female social identity, equality and feminist issues. By enhancing their self-concept beyond restrictive socio-cultural norms, he seeks to empower women.

“I think about my two daughters a lot when I teach my gender equality classes because I want them to be empowered women someday,” White said.

His two girls Lauren, 14 and Elise, 11 are doing a great job at following their father’s footsteps, by engaging in activities of their likings and making the most of it.

Lauren plays bass and is one of the singers of the Sioux City’s all girl indie rock band, Infinite Echos. Most recently, she performed at the Sioux City Conservatory of Music.

Elise also took part in the Sioux City Conservatory of Music by playing the piano. On a different note, she also enjoys participating in martial arts.

In addition to White opening up six locations in Iowa, including Sioux City, North Sioux, Ida Grove, Holstein and Lemars, he holds the position of U.S Vice president for the World TaeKwonDo Union.

White has coached at the 2000 U.S. Olympic Trials and was the instructor of multiple state and national champions.

He holds a second degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a sixth degree black belt in TaeKwonDo.

He has received a Certification of Award from the South Korean Government for Contributions to the Martial Arts and Spread of Korean Culture. White was also the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame top educator for 2012.

“I have received several other awards, but this was the first of its kind,” said White. “It was a very nice honor.”