Meet Our Staff
Edgar Avila Jr. enters his eighth year at LSU New Orleans, where he serves as Director of Recreation & Intramural Sports. Since joining the Privateer family in December 2018, he has remained committed to enhancing campus life through engaging, inclusive, and student-centered recreational programming.
A native of Metairie and proud two-time LSU New Orleans graduate, Avila earned a Bachelor's degree in History in 2016 and a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration in 2024. He is deeply invested in student staff mentorship, program growth, and creating meaningful recreational experiences for LSU New Orleans community.
Kassie is entering her 18th year at LSU New Orleans, where she serves as the Associate Director of Recreation & Intramural Sports.
Kassie is a New Orleans native. She first started at the University in 2004 as a student, where she worked at the Recreation & Fitness Center while pursuing a degree in Exercise Physiology.
Tumie Mokuena
Tumie Mokuena is a second-year MFA Film Production graduate student and recipient of the 2025 Edgar E. Burks Memorial Award. Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, he serves as the Creative Specialist at the Recreation & Fitness Center, where he manages social media marketing, videography, and photography.
His favorite part of working at the Rec is being part of a high-energy team that promotes student involvement, wellness, and campus connection. Tumie aspires to become a film director and the owner of a film studio.
Jose Trinidad Salas
Jose Trinidad is a junior studying Electrical Engineering at LSU New Orleans. As the Intramural Coordinator, he supports the administration and daily operations of intramural and club sports, fostering a structured, competitive, and safe environment for all student participants. Jose is also an active member of LSU New Orleans Volleyball Club and has a background in playing multiple sports throughout high school.
He values the opportunity to bring together students from diverse backgrounds through sport and contributes to a strong sense of community within the Recreation & Fitness Center. Jose plans to pursue a career in electrical engineering while remaining involved in club volleyball.
Ema LeCompte
Ema is our Aquatics Coordinator, focusing on Stroke Technique. She is an English major at LSU New Orleans and plans to become an educator. Ema brings her passion for teaching to the pool. With 13+ years of competitive swimming under her belt, she knows exactly how to help swimmers find their perfect form. For our little learners, she focuses on building water confidence and safety through lots of fun! She has been teaching swimming lessons since 2020, and it has truly helped her find her purpose and passion.
Avery Defrank
Avery is our Operations Coordinator at LSU New Orleans Recreation & Fitness Center. She is a Studio Arts major with a minor in Marketing. Avery is also a member of the photo and print club, ceramics club, and participates in indoor soccer intramurals.