Ohio State University ushered in a new chapter with the inauguration of its 17th president, Walter "Ted" Carter Jr., a ceremony steeped in tradition where Carter shared his strategic vision and five-point plan for the institution's path ahead, reported by WBNS. The event marked a formal commencement of Carter's presidency, which began on January 1, replacing Kristina Johnson.

Describing the ceremony, which took place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Sheridan Hendrix, writing for The Columbus Dispatch, illuminated Carter's vision for the university's future, citing his intention to create a model institution for the nation by embracing academic excellence and fostering innovation, the pledge was punctuated by his narrative, his decades of military service, and his commitment to sustaining substantial enrollment numbers despite national trends, an issue he addressed during his speech.

In a display of academic pageantry dating back to medieval universities, the ceremony featured university delegates and leaders participating in procession and regalia, a nod to the institution's enduring customs and commitment to shaping the national discourse in higher education. In his address, Carter stressed the importance of educating students for citizenship and adapting to the evolving landscape of athletics, including changes in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and the transfer portal, as detailed by ABC6.

"The future of higher education is and will be here at The Ohio State University. We will be a model for the nation," Carter declared, as per WBNS, expressing his commitment to the five-point plan, including the rigorous pursuit of academics and creating an environment conducive to working and learning. Carter's speech was anchored in his belief that Ohio State's academic greatness would naturally lead to its success in other realms. He mentioned considering a mentorship program that connects students with alumni to support student achievement.

Support for Carter's vision was echoed by Governor Mike DeWine, who expressed confidence in the Board of Trustees' decision and attended the ceremony, which Carter highlighted was participated in not just by family but other academic leaders, showing the community's solidarity, all while laying the groundwork for the "Education for Citizenship 2035" plan which seeks to guide the university through the next decade, according to ABC6.