His distinguished head coaching career began at Youngstown State in 1986, where over 15 years, he secured national titles in 1991, 1993, 1994, and 1997. Following this remarkable tenure, Tressel returned to Ohio State University as head football coach in 2001, guiding the Buckeyes to a BCS National Championship in 2002. Under his leadership, Ohio State also captured seven Big Ten championships. His coaching prowess was recognized with numerous honors, including being named AFCA Coach of the Year in 1991, 1994, and 2002, and receiving the Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant Award and Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year in 2002.

During his presidency, he notably increased graduation rates, expanded the Honors College, and spearheaded substantial fundraising efforts that led to significant campus improvements. His contributions to the sport were further immortalized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2015, the same year he was also inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame. Building on a legacy of leadership in both athletics and academia, Tressel embarked on a new chapter in public service. His strategic acumen continued to be sought, leading to his appointment to the Baldwin Wallace University board of trustees in 2024.

This role marks a continued evolution of his career, demonstrating a consistent ability to excel across diverse leadership challenges, from building championship athletic programs to steering major universities and now contributing to state governance.