Jim Tressel has worn many hats throughout his career, from championship-winning football coach to university administrator—and now, a political figure. On February 10, 2025, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine nominated him as the state’s next Lieutenant Governor, marking a new chapter in his public service journey.
Before stepping into politics, Tressel built a legacy in college football. He served as head coach at Youngstown State from 1986 to 2000, then took over as Ohio State’s 22nd head football coach in 2001, leading the Buckeyes to national glory.
Through all his successes and transitions, his wife, Ellen Tressel, has been by his side. Their relationship has been a constant in his life, offering support through both personal and professional milestones.
Here’s a closer look at his marriage, children, and financial standing.
Who Is Jim Tressel’s Wife, Ellen?
Ellen Tressel is a businesswoman and philanthropist with deep ties to Youngstown, Columbus, and Akron. As a Youngstown State University (YSU) graduate, the celebrity spouse has played an active role in community organizations and charitable initiatives, working to improve healthcare, education, and financial services in Ohio.
She has served on the boards of several institutions, including the James Cancer Hospital Foundation, Akron Children’s Hospital Foundation, Home Savings and Loan, and CODI. Her dedication to philanthropy has earned her recognition alongside her husband for their contributions to Youngstown State University and the Mahoning Valley.
They Have Been Married Since 1999 and Have Four Kids
Jim and Ellen Tressel have been together for over two decades, tying the knot in 1999. Their marriage has remained strong through Jim’s career in coaching, university leadership, and now politics, with Ellen always by his side.
The couple shares four grown children—Zak, Carlee, Eric, and Whitney—who have built their own lives while remaining close to family.
Their home isn’t complete without their beloved Maltese dogs, Scarlett and Gracie, who have been a cherished part of their family.
Jim Tressel’s Wife Elle Had a Heart Surgery
In 2005, Ellen was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition that causes thickening of the heart muscle. While she wasn’t initially symptomatic, she started experiencing shortness of breath in 2008, prompting further medical evaluation.
For 18 months, she managed the condition with medication, but as her symptoms persisted, doctors recommended surgery. In May 2010, she underwent a complex procedure at the Cleveland Clinic to remove the excess muscle obstructing her heart valves. Reflecting on the experience, Ellen described the operation in her own words:
“They opened me up, hooked me up to a heart and lung bypass, took my heart out, shaved away all those thickened muscles that were blocking the valves, put me back together, and I healed.”
Her mother had also been tested for the same condition, highlighting its hereditary nature. Fortunately, months after the surgery, Ellen reported feeling great, crediting the procedure for improving her health and quality of life.
Jim Tressel’s Net Worth: Where Does He Live Now?
Tressel has built a career that spans college football coaching and university administration, leading to an estimated net worth of $18 million. During his time as head coach at Ohio State, he earned a $3.5 million annual salary.
Tressel has long been associated with Youngstown, Ohio, where he currently resides. In 2016, he sold his 7,781-square-foot home, which he had purchased for $1.38 million in 2003, to automobile dealer Bobby Layman.
