College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

August Creppel, Chief of the United Houma Nation – Louisiana, has been involved in his tribal community for almost 30 years. The United Houma Nation spans Terrebonne, Lafourche, and four other parishes in Louisiana. Known as “Cocoa” among his people, he was born and raised on the bayous of Lafitte, LA. He now resides in Houma, LA with his wife Layla. Chief Creppel served as tribal councilman for District 8 (Jefferson Parish) for many years before becoming Vice-Chief for one year. In 2018, he became Chief of the tribe and is currently in the 3rd year of his first term of office. Chief Creppel’s vision of unity for the tribe focuses on embracing, honoring, and providing assistance to the elders while offering a better future of opportunity for the next generation of youth. With a passion and love for his people, Chief Creppel continues his hard efforts to utilize and explore all resources to benefit and move his tribe forward. In addition to his duties as Chief, he serves as a fireman and first responder, pastor and founder of Little Temple Native American Ministries, singer, actor, and former professional wrestler.

Layla Creppel (Oglala Sioux/Lumbee/Tuscarora) hails from Robeson County, North Carolina. Having been involved in the Indigenous community for many years, she is passionate about serving her people. With her multi-disciplinary background, she is also an environmental scientist and musician by profession. Music has always been a huge part of her life. She is a former member of the world-renowned Native Women’s a cappella trio, Ulali, while still participating in other musical collaborations. Layla has traveled extensively, sharing songs that tell the story of native history, resilience, and culture, all while staying true to her North Carolina roots. As the First Lady of the United Houma Nation, she continues to be a strong advocate of women’s and Indigenous rights, diversity and inclusion, environmental awareness and activism, the arts, and many other critical issues happening in our world today. Layla and her husband happily reside in Houma, Louisiana.