Provost Ravi V. Bellamkonda is OSU's 18th president
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Ravi V. Bellamkonda. Photo: Courtesy of Ohio State University
Trustees named Ravi V. Bellamkonda the 18th president of Ohio State University on Thursday, just days after the former president's abrupt resignation over an "inappropriate relationship."
Why it matters: Bellamkonda's rapid ascent into the presidency after just one year as provost signals the university's desire to quickly move forward during a turbulent time.
Catch up quick: Ted Carter Jr. unexpectedly resigned last weekend.
- The board of trustees unanimously approved Bellamkonda's promotion Thursday, a move they'd been discussing since Sunday, he told reporters.
- A bioengineer and neuroscientist, Bellamkonda brings a vast health and tech background to the role, plus about 20 years of academic leadership.
What he's saying: "One event, one person or one news story does not define The Ohio State University," Bellamkonda said.
- "The way we rebuild trust is to stay focused on our mission."
Follow the money: The quick pick means the board of trustees avoided its third costly presidential search in six years.
- The search to appoint Carter's predecessor, for example, cost more than $400,000.
- Bellamkonda signed a five-year contract with a $1.4 million annual base salary.
Referencing the lack of search, board chair John Zeiger said Thursday that "the right leader is already at our university."
- He complimented Bellamkonda's "vast experience, his personal values and management skills, and his strong record here."
Flashback: Bellamkonda's academic career began as a Case Western Reserve University professor in Cleveland in 1995. He has also held positions at Emory University, Duke University and Georgia Tech.
- At OSU, he's been heavily involved in developing a new strategic plan and launching an "AI Fluency" initiative embedding artificial intelligence into the general education requirements of all undergraduate degrees.
Zoom in: Bellamkonda's priorities as president will include advancing research, being on the "leading edge" of the AI revolution, and "shaping the future through our students."
- Asked about recent debates regarding DEI on campus, he said he's "very committed to intellectual diversity."
- He also said OSU will continue its "thorough, fair and open" process of considering calls to rename Wexner Medical Center, another hot-button issue.
What we're watching: Bellamkonda expects to appoint an interim provost and search nationally for a permanent replacement for that role.
- Officials gave no updates on the investigation into Carter's misconduct Thursday, but acknowledged the investigation is ongoing.
A few fun facts
Ohio State's new president didn't just talk business — here are a few fun facts mentioned during his first day on the job.
- He holds 11 U.S. patents focused on new ways to treat cancer, brain diseases and nerve injuries.
- His middle-aged goldendoodle, C.J., is the first pet he's ever owned.
- He roots for Cleveland sports, calling the day the Cavs won the 2016 championship "one of the best days of my life."