Ravi V. Bellamkonda Named President of Ohio State University
Ohio State University (OSU) has a new leader. Provost Ravi V. Bellamkonda has stepped into the role of President following the resignation of former President Ted Carter. The Board of Trustees made the decision on March 12th, just days after Carter disclosed an “inappropriate relationship,” leading to his departure. With spring graduation just around the corner, Bellamkonda has assumed the position permanently.
A Swift Transition and a Dedicated Leader
Bellamkonda began his tenure as provost and executive vice president of OSU in 2025, following a nearly year-long search by the university. Former President Carter himself lauded Bellamkonda’s appointment, calling the provost position the “most important” hire he would make and describing him as “everything he was looking for.”
Addressing concerns about the speed of his appointment during a press conference, Bellamkonda emphasized his commitment to OSU. “All my life I’ve been privileged to take on roles that have had some impact and meaning. And for me, there’s no greater honor than to have this role. When asked to serve, it is my duty… to step up and serve,” he stated.
From India to the Buckeye State: Bellamkonda’s Journey
Bellamkonda’s journey to the presidency of OSU is a remarkable one. In 1989, at the age of 21, he left India to pursue a Ph.D. at Brown University, marking his first time on an airplane. His distinguished career, rooted in neuroscience and bioengineering, has spanned decades and numerous institutions.
Prior to OSU, Bellamkonda held leadership positions at:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (post-doctoral fellow)
- Case Western Reserve University (professor)
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Wallace H. Coulter Professor and chair of biomedical engineering)
- Duke University (Vinik Dean of Engineering)
- Emory University (provost and executive vice president for academic affairs)
A Passion for Ohio and a Love for Sports
Bellamkonda isn’t just dedicated to academic excellence; he’s also a passionate fan of Ohio sports. A devout supporter of the Cleveland Browns and Cavaliers, he fondly recalls the Cavaliers’ 2016 NBA championship win as “one of the best days of my life.” He shares his life with his wife, Dr. Lalita Kaligotla, and their two children, and recently welcomed a goldendoodle named C.J. into their family, whom he describes as “life-changing.”
Focus on the Future: AI and Academic Innovation
During his time as provost, Bellamkonda has already begun to prioritize key initiatives, particularly in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He is spearheading a “bold, groundbreaking initiative” to ensure that “every Ohio State student will graduate being AI fluent.” This includes integrating AI into undergraduate curriculums, providing faculty training, and forging AI education partnerships.
He also launched the “Game Changer Scholars” initiative, aimed at attracting top-tier faculty to OSU. Under his oversight, Ohio State has also experienced a record-breaking year for research investment, despite federal funding cuts.
The Circumstances of Carter’s Resignation
The transition to Bellamkonda came after President Carter admitted to an “inappropriate relationship” with someone seeking state resources. The Board of Trustees accepted his resignation on March 7th, just over two years into his tenure. The situation also involves scrutiny of JobsOhio’s investment in The Callout Podcast, a show focused on veteran employment, and potential efforts to recoup $60,000 in funding. Read more about the details of the resignation here.
Ravi V. Bellamkonda’s appointment marks a new chapter for Ohio State University, one filled with promise, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence.
