On Aug. 16, 2025, Northwestern State University of Louisiana shared the passing of Louisiana House Speaker Joe Reece Salter, an alumnus and member of the Long Purple Line, NSU’s alumni hall of distinction.
At NSU, he was a part of Blue Key Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi. He began his career in education in Florien, Louisiana, where he served the Sabine Parish School System as a teacher and administrator for many years.
“Salter became principal at Florien High School (FHS) and held that position for 11 years. As principal, he initiated the construction of a new school building, FHS became state accredited, and he served four consecutive terms as president of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. Salter was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Sabine Parish Schools where he served for 17 years,” according to his obituary by The Advocate.
Salter was a three-time recipient of the Louisiana Federation of Teachers, where he won the Legislative Golden Apple Award. He was also named to the Louisiana Association of Educators Legislative Honor Roll three times. He was honored by organizations including the Louisiana Council on Aging, Fleur de Lis Health Care, Louisiana Public Broadcasting and the Louisiana Association of School Executives.
In 1986, Salter began his political career when he was elected to the 24th District of the Louisiana House of Representatives. He was the first person in his district to become Speaker of the House. He served as the 62nd Speaker of the House from 2004 to 2008 and was the first person in his district to become Speaker.
While serving as Speaker of the House, he was inducted into the Long Purple Line in 2006. “Salter has become one of the most respected leaders in state government,” his Long Purple Line description states.
He was inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Educators at NSU and the Sabine Parish Hall of Fame, and in 2008, into the Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame.
Most recently, he served the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, reappointed by Gov. Jeff Landry to represent the 4th Congressional District earlier this year, which would have extended through Dec. 31, 2030.
In his honor, Gov. Landry ordered that flags of the United States and Louisiana be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol and all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Aug. 22 and Aug. 24, 2025.
“He touched countless lives with his perseverance, wisdom, and kindness, and he leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication to all who knew him,” Landry said in an executive order after Salter’s passing.
Salter’s career reflected his lifelong commitment to education, public service and the state of Louisiana. His legacy and dedication to serving the community have left an everlasting impact on the NSU community.
