The state Ethics Commission is investigating whether an Ohio State University trustee who is also a federal judge is violating state ethics laws by teaching at Ohio State's law school.
The university argues that Algenon Marbley meets a four-fold test under state law allowing the arrangement, including the talent Marbley brings to the classroom along with his experience and background. The university also argues that Marbley brings distinct mentoring opportunities as one of the few black federal judges in Ohio. The Ethics Commission has been investigating since February after the university reported the arrangement late last year. The commission previously issued advisory opinions that said trustees at Kent State and Bowling Green State University were prohibited from holding teaching positions. Marbley has been teaching for free during the investigation.