NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana hired Rae Campbell as assistant athletics director of gameday operations and community engagement. Campbell's first day at XULA was Sept. 15.
        Campbell is a lifelong resident of metro New Orleans who most recently worked as an administrative assistant in Tulane University's division of student affairs and in ticket operations and special events for the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans.
        Campbell worked at Grambling State University, one of her alma maters, from 2011-15 as assistant to the athletic director and athletic staff.
        "From the start Rae has demonstrated the ability to communicate with our campus, organize and execute game promotions and increase interest in Xavier Athletics," said Pat Kendrick, XULA executive director of athletics and recreation and the head coach of women's volleyball.
        Campbell was selected to attend the 2021 LEARFIELD EDGE (Empowering Diversity Growth & Equity) Academy, held in partnership with the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA). That same year Women Leaders in Sports named Campbell as a Rising Star in College Sports.
        Campbell earned a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology, with a concentration in sport management, from Grambling in 2015. She received a master of business administration from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2019.
        Campbell replaced Loretta Martin, who departed XULA during the summer to become associate athletics director at Talladega College.
        XULA is a longtime member of the NAIA and sponsors 16 intercollegiate teams. This is XULA's third season as a member of the Red River Athletic Conference.

Rae Campbell photo by Yamlak Tsega