COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio State University President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. has stepped down from his role after informing university trustees that he engaged in an improper relationship with an individual seeking public resources to back her private business endeavors.
The Board of Trustees for The Ohio State University officially accepted Carter’s resignation in an announcement released on March 9. The university indicated that Carter recently disclosed the relationship to the trustees and subsequently offered to resign.
“The board appreciates the president’s contributions to the university over the last two years,” the university stated, attributing success to the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan, improved national rankings, an increase in research spending, and the launch of several new scholarship initiatives. The university also acknowledged the team President Carter assembled for enhancing Ohio State’s standing as a national leader.
VIEW: Ted Carter’s ABC 6 Interview from September 2025
Ohio State announced it would release additional details regarding the leadership transition in the coming days.
In a personal statement, Carter declared his “difficult decision to resign from my role as president of The Ohio State University” citing “personal reasons.”
He admitted to the trustees that he “made a mistake in allowing inappropriate access to Ohio State leadership.”
Carter reflected that substantial advancements had been made during his time at Ohio State, expressing his regret that he could not continue as president. He also affirmed that the university’s students, faculty, and staff are exceptionally talented and that the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan positions Ohio State for long-term success.
Carter conveyed his gratitude for the board of trustees’ support and guidance, noting that he had maintained a robust working relationship with them.
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He concluded by stating that he and Lynda were leaving Ohio State with deep gratitude and appreciation for its remarkable community. He expressed that it was an honor to have served as the university’s 17th president and extended his best wishes for its continued prosperity.