Ohio State’s leadership presence in college sports just got stronger. President Ted Carter has been appointed to the NCAA Board of Governors, the association’s top governing body responsible for shaping policy and guiding the future of collegiate athletics. His two-year term gives the Buckeyes a direct voice in some of the most important decisions in college sports, and as an Ohio State fan, it’s hard not to see this as a win for both the university and the Big Ten. Carter’s appointment marks the first time since Michael Drake’s tenure from 2019 to 2020 that Ohio State has held a seat on the board, and it comes at a moment when the NCAA is undergoing major transformation.

Carter expressed his excitement in a social media post, saying he was “honored” to take on the role and “excited” for Ohio State to have a seat at the table during such a pivotal time for college athletics. This is not just a symbolic move—Carter’s background makes him uniquely suited for the position. A former NCAA hockey player at the U.S. Naval Academy, he understands the demands placed on student-athletes while also recognizing the broader role athletics plays in a university’s culture and national profile. He’s made it clear since becoming Ohio State’s president in January 2024 that sports are, in his words, the “front porch” of the university, a vital connector between the institution and the public. His frequent presence at Buckeye athletic events reinforces that commitment.

Carter’s leadership will be especially valuable as the NCAA navigates uncharted territory with revenue sharing, NIL regulations, and realignment reshaping the college sports landscape. These aren’t just minor adjustments—they represent a fundamental shift in how college athletics operates, and having a Buckeye in the room where those decisions are made matters. Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork is already involved in the process as a member of the Settlement Implementation Committee, tasked with overseeing the rollout of changes brought by the House v. NCAA settlement. With both Carter and Bjork engaged in governance at the national level, Ohio State has a level of influence and representation that few programs can match.

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From a Buckeye fan’s perspective, this appointment is another reminder that Ohio State isn’t just competing for national championships on the field—it’s also playing a key role in shaping the rules and policies that will define the future of college sports. With Carter’s leadership and Bjork’s active involvement, Ohio State is ensuring it has a strong and respected voice in every major conversation about where college athletics goes from here.