For the better half of four decades, Archie Griffin's name has been synonymous with Ohio State. From the football field and beyond, Griffin's been recognized as one of the university's most notable alumni.
Tuesday, Griffin announced he's ready for a change.
The two-time Heisman Trophy winner announced in a video on the school's website of his intentions to step down as president and CEO of the Ohio State alumni association, a role he's held for 11 years.
"I've been immensely proud to serve as head of the Ohio State Alumni Association for the past 11 years," Griffin said in the video. "It's been the highlight of my professional life to engage with Buckeyes everywhere while sharpening the Alumni Association into a dynamic association. For more than a decade, I have been the captain of a great team at the Alumni Association, but the time has come for me to find a new role. I find you can only do a job for so long before it's time to give someone else that opportunity."
Griffin still plans to be a part of the university in what he says is a "part-time" position as senior advisor within the university's Office of Advancement.
"I am thrilled that Archie will continue his legacy of leadership at Ohio State while having the flexibility to spend more time with his loving family,” Ohio State President Michael V. Drake said in a press release. “He has been a tireless champion of the university, and I am grateful that he will continue to serve in such an important way.”
Following the conclusion of his NFL career, Griffin spent 20 years within the athletic department before taking the position as the head of the alumni association in 2004.
He's thrived in the position, leading the Association to connect more than 500,000 Ohio State alumni worldwide. Griffin is set to return to Ohio Stadium May 10, where he is scheduled to give Ohio State's commencement address.
"From the moment he stepped on the field at Ohio Stadium as a student-athlete in 1972, Archie has worked hard and selflessly to advance the university,” said senior vice president for advancement David Eicher. “Earlier this year, he shared that he was ready to transition to a part-time role and that the Alumni Association was well positioned for a new leader. I’m glad to say he will continue to serve as an iconic representative for the university and will participate in numerous engagements that connect him with devoted alumni and friends."
The release states Ohio State will open a search for Griffin's replacement "soon."
Griffin is Ohio State's all-time leading rusher with 5,589 yards, including 1,695 yards and 1,450 yards in 1974 and 1975, the two seasons he won the Heisman.
