Speaking for the first time as Ohio State’s new President, Ravi V. Bellamkonda said he was honored to be chosen to lead, after he overcame initial feelings of shock over former president Walter “Ted” Carter Jr.’s sudden departure. In a press conference held after his promotion, Bellamkonda discussed a wide range of topics, including ongoing concerns over Les Wexner’s name on campus buildings, Ohio State’s reputation, the future of Carter’s initiatives, diversity equity and inclusion, the Richard Strauss class action lawsuit and students’ free speech. He offered no new insights about why Carter abruptly resigned. “It’s an honor to be here and serve the Ohio State University,” Bellamkonda said. “We have fantastic leaders here, like my colleague John Warner, who leads our healthcare enterprise, and [wife] Lalita are just delighted to be a part of this community the last 400-plus days.” Read more at thelantern.com thelantern.com/2026/03/new-president-responds-to-press-on-on...