Ohio State University President Resigns Over Inappropriate Relationship

Ted Carter disclosed inappropriate access to university leadership

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Ohio State University Board of Trustees has accepted President Walter 'Ted' Carter Jr.'s resignation, effective immediately. Carter disclosed to the board that he had an inappropriate relationship with someone seeking public resources to support her personal business, and offered to resign.

Why it matters

The resignation of a university president due to an inappropriate relationship raises concerns about ethics, accountability, and the potential misuse of institutional resources. It also raises questions about the university's leadership transition and the impact on the institution's reputation and operations.

The details

In a statement, the Ohio State University Board of Trustees said they had accepted Carter's resignation after he disclosed the inappropriate relationship. Carter also issued a statement, acknowledging his 'mistake in allowing inappropriate access to Ohio State leadership' and saying he believes the university has made 'much progress' during his time as president.

  • On March 9, 2026, Ohio State University leadership announced Carter's resignation.

The players

Walter 'Ted' Carter Jr.

The former president of Ohio State University, who resigned due to an inappropriate relationship.

Ohio State University Board of Trustees

The governing body that accepted Carter's resignation.

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What they’re saying

“The Ohio State University Board of Trustees has accepted President Walter 'Ted' Carter Jr.'s resignation. The president recently disclosed to trustees that he had an inappropriate relationship with someone seeking public resources to support her personal business, and offered to resign.”

— Ohio State University (614now.com)

“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. 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.”

— Walter 'Ted' Carter Jr., Former President (614now.com)

What’s next

Ohio State University has not yet announced who will take over leadership following Carter's resignation.

The takeaway

The resignation of the Ohio State University president due to an inappropriate relationship highlights the importance of ethical leadership and the need for universities to maintain high standards of integrity and accountability.