COLUMBUS, Ohio In a stunning development shaking higher education in Ohio, The Ohio State University President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. has resigned effective immediately following revelations of an inappropriate relationship. The announcement came on March 9, 2026, after the university’s Board of Trustees accepted his resignation during a special meeting over the weekend. Carter, who took office on January 1, 2024, cited personal reasons for his departure, admitting he made a mistake by granting inappropriate access to OSU leadership. This marks the latest leadership turnover at OSU, which has seen three presidents and one interim since 2020, prompting concerns about stability at one of Ohio’s flagship institutions.
Details from the university indicate Carter disclosed the relationship involved someone seeking public resources to bolster her personal business, leading him to offer his resignation. Board Chair John Zeiger described the board as surprised and disappointed but appreciative of Carter’s role in facilitating a smooth transition. Carter’s tenure, though brief at just over two years, included notable achievements such as spearheading the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan, boosting research funding, elevating national rankings, and expanding scholarship opportunities for students across Ohio. He also addressed contentious issues like campus diversity programs and the evolving landscape of college athletics, where he criticized the current NIL model as unsustainable. Prior to OSU, the Rhode Island native built a career in military and higher education leadership, including presiding over the University of Nebraska system.
As south central Ohio’s communities, from Columbus to surrounding areas, rely on OSU for education, research, and economic impact, this resignation raises questions about the university’s future direction. No successor or interim leader has been named yet, with OSU promising updates soon. Carter, whose compensation neared $1.2 million annually making him one of the Big Ten’s highest-paid presidents, received a raise and enhanced benefits shortly before stepping down. The board emphasized gratitude for his contributions while prioritizing an orderly leadership shift to maintain OSU’s momentum as a key driver in Ohio’s economy and innovation. Residents in south central Ohio and beyond will watch closely as the university embarks on yet another presidential search.
