This spring, Mississippi State University will welcome back one of its alumni — accomplished political journalist Sid Salter.  Salter will be joining the MSU staff as the new journalist-in-residence for the MSU libraries.
Salter graduated from MSU with degrees in political science and history.  Over the course of his career, Salter has been a publisher and editor for numerous newspapers, president of two publishing companies, a talk show host and a political analyst.  His current position is the Perspectives Editor of The Clarion Ledger, the state’s largest newspaper based out of Jackson.  In addition, he is the host of a daily radio talk show on SuperTalk Mississippi and is a syndicated columnist for 53 Mississippi newspapers.
In the ’90s, Salter was on staff at the University of Mississippi as the first Kelly Gene Cook, Sr., Chair in Journalism and assistant professor in the journalism department.
 
During his stay at Ole Miss, Salter taught classes and interacted with students through advising and seminars. 
 ”I found that I really enjoyed working with young people at the college level,” he said.
As a staff member at MSU, Salter again will be involved with students. 
“First and foremost my charge is spending time in the classroom with students pursuing careers in journalism, public service and politics,” Salter said. 
However, Salter’s role as journalist-in-residence involves other duties beyond classroom instruction. 
Salter will work directly with Dean of Libraries Francis Coleman in expanding and improving MSU libraries’ permanent collections.  These collections are composed of primary documents including papers, letters, newspaper articles and books from notable figures including authors, military leaders, senators, congressmen and presidents. 
The permanent collections are an integral part of MSU Libraries, Coleman said.
“The library program is responsible for providing to our campus the resources that our students, faculty and researchers need in support of their responsibilities,” she said. 
Salter said he believes the permanent collections at MSU’s Mitchell Memorial Library are the most significant repository of congressional, political and journalism special collections in Mississippi. 
He will be responsible for developing these collections and increasing the students’ awareness and use of them through speakers and seminars.
Salter said he hopes to increase student interaction with practicing journalists as well.
Coleman said she looks forward to having Salter join the library staff.
“He’s a very capable individual, and it’s just wonderful that he’s going to be working with us,” she said. “His coming will be very prestigious for the university.”
Salter said he is excited for the opportunity as well.
“I believe MSU President Mark Keenum has a vision for growing and expanding this university that I share and support. My background and experience can be a help to young people who are seeking a career in public service, journalism or in politics,” he said. “Most of all, I’m excited about an opportunity to give back to an institution that has given so much to me and to generations of my family.”