Gov. Mike DeWine announced Monday morning his nomination of Jim Tressel to serve as Ohio’s lieutenant governor.
Tressel would succeed Jon Husted, who vacated the position last month after being appointed by DeWine to fill an open U.S. Senate seat.
Tressel, 70, brings a diverse background to the role. He most recently served as president of Youngstown State University, a position he held until retiring in 2023. His connection to the university spans decades, including 15 years as head coach of its football team, where he led the Penguins to four national championships. Tressel also served as head football coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes for 10 seasons, securing a national championship in 2002. Following his coaching career, he worked as executive vice president for student success at the University of Akron.
DeWine cited Tressel’s extensive experience in education, workforce development, and economic growth as key factors in his decision.
“Jim has spent a great deal of time working with and leading young people, and he will be involved directly with education and workforce development during the remaining two years of my administration,” DeWine said. “Jim Tressel knows Ohio, he shares Ohio’s values, and is a born leader.”
Tressel expressed gratitude and a strong sense of duty following the announcement.
“This is really a humbling moment,” Tressel said. “I believe in our governor and what he believes in. I promised for the next 699 days to have a singleness of purpose and singleness of focus, which is to serve the needs that the governor outlines.”
Before assuming the role, Tressel must be confirmed by the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives. If confirmed, he is expected to play a significant role in shaping education and workforce policies in Ohio.
