Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., president of The Ohio State University, has resigned after informing the university’s board of trustees of an inappropriate relationship with a person seeking public resources to support a private business.
The university confirmed the development in a statement issued March 9, saying Carter had recently brought the matter to the attention of administrators and offered to resign his position.
In a statement confirming his departure, the Ohio State University Board of Trustees highlighted Carter’s contributions during his tenure of just over two years.
“The committee recognizes the president’s contributions to the university over the past two years,” the university said, noting progress on the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan, improved national rankings, increased research funding and the introduction of several scholarship initiatives. The board also recognized the leadership team Carter assembled to strengthen Ohio State’s position as a national academic institution.
University officials said more details about the leadership transition will be shared in the coming days.
Ted Carter Jr. tendered his resignation
Following the announcement, Carter issued a public statement acknowledging the circumstances that led to his decision.
“For personal reasons, I have made the difficult decision to resign from my role as president of The Ohio State University. I have disclosed to the Board of Trustees that I made a mistake in allowing inappropriate access to the leadership of Ohio State.”
Carter was appointed as Ohio State’s 17th president in 2023, succeeding Kristina Johnson. He officially assumed the role on 1 January 2024.
Prior to Ohio State, Carter served as president of the University of Nebraska System, overseeing four campuses serving nearly 70,000 students, faculty and staff.
Career in higher education management
Throughout his career in academic leadership, Carter has been associated with initiatives aimed at strengthening research capacity, expanding student opportunities and improving university rankings.
In his statement about his tenure, Carter said he is proud of the progress he has made during his time at Ohio State.
“I believe we have made great strides during my time at Ohio State, and I am sorry that I cannot remain your president longer. The students, faculty and staff of this university are among the best in the world, and the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan has Ohio State destined for success in the years to come,” he said.
Carter also thanked the university community and board members for their support during his time as president.
“I have enjoyed a strong working relationship with the Board of Trustees and am grateful for their support and leadership. Lynda and I leave Ohio State with gratitude and appreciation for this wonderful community. It has been an honor to serve as the university’s 17th president, and we wish the university continued success.”
The university has not yet announced who will take over in the interim.
