Jim Tressel will hold a news conference on Thursday to talk about his decision to step down as president of Youngstown State University next year.

The media event is scheduled for approximately 10:45 a.m. following the YSU Board of Trustees meeting in the lobby of Tod Hall on the YSU campus.

An email to YSU students and staff announced that Jim Tressel will step down from his position as President of the university.

"Ellen and I plan to step aside as President and First Lady of our beloved YSU, effective February 1, 2023," the email said.

He previously coached the YSU Penguins football team from 1986-2000, winning four national championships during his tenure. During his 15 seasons as head coach, the Penguins held an overall record of 135-57-2.

Tressel left Youngstown in 2001, taking over as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes.

While at the helm in Columbus he captured seven Big Ten championships in 10 seasons and won another national title in 2002.

Prior to becoming Youngstown State's 9th president, he served as Executive Vice President for Student Success at the University of Akron.

President Tressel says he plans to work seven days a week until February, saying this is currently a challenging time for higher education.

"It has been truly a blessing and labor of love to serve Youngstown State University in a number of capacities, and we will continue to do so, in whatever fashion that the YSU Board of Trustees sees fit," Tressel said.

It seems that Tressel, 69, will be moving into a new phase in his life.

“I cannot thank my family enough for allowing my schedule, and the needs of our university, to take priority and center stage,” he added. “It is now only fair to have Ellen, our wonderful children and grandchildren, extended family, friends and former students, set the schedule.”

YSU Board of Trustees Chair John Jakubek said details regarding a plan to find Tressel's successor will be released as they become available.