In 1982 all state colleges and universities in Louisiana were mandated by the Consent Decree to develop programs in remedial education.  Later, when recommendations concerning standards and curriculum were reported in the TASK FORCE REPORT ON DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION IN LOUISIANA, educators who had previously been affiliated with Trio professional groups and educators new to the developmental field recognized the need for a professional organization focused specifically on basic skills development in higher education.

Louisiana college and university officials interested in developmental education began to discuss forming a professional organization. On February 26, 1982, a meeting was held at LSU-Eunice to discuss the benefits of an organization such as LADE. An official organizational meeting was held March 25, 1982, at LSU-Baton Rouge. At this meeting approximately 100 interested persons gathered to elect the first slate of officers, to ratify the constitution and by-laws, to discuss membership fees and affiliation with the national organization, and to hear reports.

The Louisiana Association for Developmental Education (LADE) held its first official meeting of officers on April 5, 1982. J. J. Ewell presided as the first president. Since then, LADE has expanded in membership and the board of officers has expanded to a large council consisting of officers and ex-officio board members from around the state. Additionally, LADE has maintained a cooperative working relationship with the Louisiana Board of Regents by assisting in the development of reporting procedures, curriculum standards, and research.