COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. has resigned after disclosing to university trustees that he had an inappropriate relationship with someone seeking public resources to support her personal business.
The Ohio State University Board of Trustees accepted Carter’s resignation in an announcement issued March 9. The university said Carter recently told trustees about the relationship and offered to resign.
“The board appreciates the president’s contributions to the university over the last two years,” the university said, citing the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan, rising national rankings, growth in research expenditures and multiple new scholarship programs. The university also credited the team the president assembled with elevating Ohio State’s position as a national leader.
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Ohio State said it will share additional information about the leadership transition in the coming days.
In a statement, Carter said, “For personal reasons, I have made the difficult decision to resign from my role as president of The Ohio State University.”
“I disclosed to the board of trustees that I made a mistake in allowing inappropriate access to Ohio State leadership,” he said.
Carter said, “I believe we have made much progress during my time at Ohio State, and I’m sorry I’m not able to remain your president longer.” He also said, “The students, faculty and staff at this university are among the very best in the world, and the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan has Ohio State poised to succeed for years to come.”
“I have enjoyed a strong working relationship with the board of trustees, and I’m grateful for their support and guidance,” Carter said.
“Lynda and I leave Ohio State with gratitude and appreciation for this wonderful community,” he said. “It has been an honor to serve as this university’s 17th president, and we wish the university ongoing success.”
