Ohio State President Ted Carter Resigns Amid Relationship Concerns
Ohio State University President Ted Carter resigned on March 9, 2026, after disclosing an “inappropriate relationship” to the university’s Board of Trustees. The resignation comes after just over two years in the role, and with a five-year contract initially set to expire in 2028.
Details of the Resignation
According to a statement released by the university, Carter admitted to the relationship with an individual “seeking state resources to support her personal business.” The Columbus Dispatch reported that an anonymous source alerted the Board of Trustees, prompting a confrontation with Carter and his subsequent offer to resign.
University spokesman Ben Johnson stated that the woman involved did not work at the university and declined to provide further details about the nature of the relationship. The Dispatch also noted that the university will conduct an investigation into the relationship and the potential misuse of public funds.
Board Response and Carter’s Tenure
The Board of Trustees accepted Carter’s resignation and expressed disappointment. Board Chair John Zeiger stated, “The Board was surprised and disappointed to learn of this matter and takes the situation and its potential impact on the university very seriously.” Zeiger added that the board respected Carter’s decision and appreciated his cooperation in ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
Carter, who began his tenure on January 1, 2024, previously served as president of the University of Nebraska System and superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy. During his time at Ohio State, he oversaw a period of change, including responses to university protests, discussions about artificial intelligence in education, and a government-ordered reshaping of university education.
Prior to his resignation, Carter received at least two raises, with his base salary reaching $1,189,733 as of August 2025, with a potential bonus of $398,475.
Succession and Ongoing Issues
The university has not yet announced an interim president or potential candidates to succeed Carter. Speculation has surfaced regarding potential candidates, including former OSU president E. Gordon Gee (who has stated he would not take the job if offered) and former OSU football coach and current Ohio Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel.
Carter’s departure marks the third presidential change at Ohio State since 2020, following the resignation of Kristina Johnson after two years in office. Faculty members have expressed frustration with this turnover, calling for a more transparent hiring process.
Ohio State is also grappling with calls to remove the name of alumnus and major donor Les Wexner from campus facilities due to his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.