COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The president of Ohio State University calls the attention generated by a memorabilia-for-cash scandal in its football program a monumental shame that overshadowed the school’s accomplishments.

Gordon Gee says it’s an unjust proposition that the ingenuity of so many has been subordinated to the impropriety of a few.

Gee said Wednesday in a speech in downtown Columbus that the scandal has masked a remarkable year at the school.

The NCAA said last month that the Ohio State football team and new coach Urban Meyer would be banned from a bowl game after next season.

The university also forfeited its 2010 season, including a Sugar Bowl win.

The punishments stem from violations that started with eight football players taking thousands of dollars in cash and tattoos in exchange for jerseys, rings and other Buckeyes memorabilia.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.