Ohio State University President Ted Carter Resigns

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio State University Board of Trustees has accepted the resignation of President Walter "Ted" Carter Jr., the university announced Monday.

Carter offered his resignation after disclosing to trustees that he had engaged in an inappropriate relationship with an individual seeking public resources to support her personal business, according to a university statement. The board said it appreciates Carter's contributions to Ohio State over the past two years.

"President Carter and his team have elevated Ohio State's position as a national leader through initiatives such as the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan, increases in national rankings, growth in research expenditures and the creation of new scholarship programs," the board said. "We are grateful for his service and wish him well."

Carter issued the following statement: "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 am sorry I am not able to remain your president longer. 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 am grateful for their support and guidance.

"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 ongoing success."

Ohio State officials said additional information about the leadership transition will be released in the coming days.