The Ohio State University has reached a $100 million settlement with 279 former students who accused campus doctor Richard Strauss of sexual abuse decades ago.
The Board ratified the agreement on Wednesday after years of litigation over allegations that Richard Strauss abused students from 1978 to 1998 while working at The Ohio State University athletic department and medical staff.
Meanwhile, the university and victims’ lawyers said mediation remains confidential as they finalize details, and they continue discussions to complete the settlement process.
In addition, in February, the institution also reached eight additional settlements, bringing the total to 304 survivors and more than $60 million in compensation. Strauss died by suicide in 2005, while a 2019 investigative report found he had abused at least 177 men, mostly students and that staff failed to act.
Following the findings, more than 500 plaintiffs filed lawsuits alleging sexual abuse and institutional negligence and officials stated they will continue legal resolution and support for survivors.
Moreover officials emphasized accountability and continued monitoring of historical abuse cases stressing compensation policy strengthening and improved reporting mechanisms to prevent future misconduct.
Furthermore lawyers for victims welcomed the resolution but said many survivors still seek emotional closure beyond financial compensation urging broader reforms in higher education institutions.
Ultimately the case highlights long-standing institutional failures and reinforces demands for transparency while authorities said similar reviews may continue across universities in the United States.
Consequently, the settlement represents one of the largest resolutions of campus sexual abuse litigation in U.S. higher education history, and it underscores growing pressure on universities to ensure stronger safeguarding systems, enhance accountability frameworks, and rebuild trust among students, alumni, and the broader public going forward globally implemented.
