Ohio State University Investigation Finds Former President Ted Carter Violated Policy
Ohio State University released a report on Tuesday, April 22, 2026, confirming that former president Ted Carter violated university policy by attempting to assist a woman with whom he had a close personal relationship in obtaining employment and accessing university resources.
The investigation, initiated by the university’s board of trustees following Carter’s resignation in March 2026, found that Carter made multiple requests to university employees to support Krisanthe Vlachos, who hosted a podcast for military veterans.
Key Findings from the Investigation
- At least 14 university employees received direct requests from Carter to assist Vlachos.
- Requests included recommending a university official hire her, providing campus space for her business, and offering staff and technical support for her podcast.
- Carter as well encouraged university investment in her business proposals and sought financial support from external agencies such as JobsOhio.
- The report clarified that Vlachos was never hired as an Ohio State employee or consultant, and never received university funds or designated workspaces.
University Response and Actions Taken
In a statement, Ohio State Board Chair John Zeiger described the investigation’s findings as “deeply disappointing.” He emphasized that the university’s systems and processes prevented the misuse of university resources, though the report documented how Carter’s actions led to “misapplied time and effort of numerous university personnel.”
The investigation was conducted by offices reporting to the board’s legal, audit, risk and compliance committee, resulting in a 47-page report issued on Monday, April 21, 2026.
Background on Ted Carter’s Tenure
Ted Carter served as president of Ohio State University from January 2024 until his resignation on March 9, 2026. Prior to that, he was president of the University of Nebraska system from 2020 to 2023 and superintendent of the United States Naval Academy from 2014 to 2019.
Carter resigned after disclosing “an inappropriate relationship with someone seeking public resources to support her personal business,” stating he had made a mistake in allowing inappropriate access to Ohio State leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific policy did Ted Carter violate?
Carter violated Ohio State University’s policies regarding conflicts of interest and the appropriate use of university resources by attempting to leverage his position to benefit someone with whom he had a personal relationship.
Was Krisanthe Vlachos ever employed by Ohio State University?
No, the investigation found that Vlachos was never hired as an Ohio State employee or consultant and did not receive any university funds or specific workspaces.
What actions did the university take following the investigation?
The university released the investigation report and affirmed that its existing systems and processes prevented the misuse of university resources, though it acknowledged the misapplication of staff time and effort resulting from Carter’s requests.