Ohio State President Retires Following Jokes that Offended Some

Took jabs at other schools

Ohio State President E. Gordon Gee said this afternoon that he plans to retire on July 1, following the latest in a series of verbal gaffes that he said were meant as harmless jokes but ended up embarrassing the university.

The two-time Ohio State president will make his announcement this afternoon in an email to students, faculty and staff.

"Without question, the university has achieved remarkable success, and it has been my honor and calling to lead it," Gee's email says. "Ohio State is well-positioned for the future. I love this university, and my relationship with it will continue."