Tressel, Kasich possible candidates to become Ohio State University president
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio State University is reportedly considering former Ohio Governor John Kasich to become the university's next president, according to WCMH anchor Colleen Marshall.
Marshall said that two sources told her that Kasich has been in consideration for the position for several months.
A spokesperson for Kasich, Jim Lynch, tells 21 News that at this time, everything is speculative.
Several blogs and social media outlets are reporting that current YSU president and former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel would be a good candidate for the job.
Steven Koesterman, in an article for Scarlet and Game, said that Tressel is a perfect candidate to take the helm at OSU.
Bob Mansfield, a former staff member of Tressel's at OSU and YSU, tells 21 News that he believes Tressel is a good candidate for the position.
"He would be a great fit. His record and accomplishments are amazing. I talked to him this morning, he never mentioned it. I don't want to speak for him, though if he would be interested or not," said Mansfield, "He's very happy with what he's done at YSU."
John Geletka, Tressel's former agent, said, "There's no doubt in my mind he'd be a great candidate."
Geletka felt there would be speculation as soon as Drake announced his retirement.
When asked about whether or not Tressel would be interested in the job, Geletka said, "The only person who knows that is Jim Tressel."
Valley businessman Bruce Zoldan, the owner of Phantom Fireworks, said that the fact that Tressel is doing a great job at YSU and the fact that he's in consideration for the position says a lot about the Youngtown community.
"As a friend who worked very hard behind the scenes and in front of the scenes to bring him to Youngstown State University, I would be encouraging him, if offered, to take it and I know YSU will benefit whether he stays or leaves. He'll provide something to YSU that will continue the success he started here and certainly be a major asset to Ohio State University," Zoldan said.
Daryl Mincey, President of the Penguin Club said they're hoping to keep President Tressel at YSU.
"You can see why we want to keep him. He's done so much for this institution in the few years that he's been here," Mincey said, "so I can understand why they might want him back there and you can also understand why we want to keep him."
Miney went on to comment on how much Tressel has done for the Valley and says that if he goes he would be behind him 100 percent.
We've reached out to Jim Tressel but have not heard back.
Current Ohio State President Michael Drake will be retiring next year.
Drake has been president at Ohio State since 2014.
