Judith Hansen made it official Friday. She delivered her letter of resignation as president of Southwestern Oregon Community College.

There were no surprises. Her message focused on the college’s growth during her tenure instead of the hot button issues of the past year. It also was brief.

Addressed to the board, it reads:

“Thank you for the last four years of opportunity to work with you and the Southwestern Oregon Community College District staff, faculty, students and citizens we serve. The increased enrollments, innovative programming and alternative learning opportunities which have resulted from the new Strategic Plan and Master Plan we initiated together set record college outcomes.

“Consistent with your acceptance of my proposed employment contract resolution, please accept this letter as notice to you of my resignation as President of Southwestern Oregon Community College, effective the end of the working day, Wednesday, October 8, 2008.”

Hansen left her post Wednesday, leaving her subordinates the challenge of managing the college until new leadership arrives.

Dean of Students Patty Scott, who the board appointed to head the college, met with college leaders Thursday to discuss the transition period.

According to Vice President of Administrative Services Sheldon Meyer, little will change.

They agreed to continue the conservative fiscal practices instituted by Hansen after borrowing $1.5 million to meet payroll and cover bills in September. Those include limiting travel, conserving electricity and looking carefully before deciding to fill an open position.

One position that is still up in the air is Meyer’s. He was expected to retire this fall, though his departure date is not set, he said. The college announced the hiring of a replacement VP, Richard Weldon, who was going to move to the area from South Carolina. The board subsequently expressed concern about the hiring, wanting someone with more fiscal experience. Meyer said college counsel hasn’t determined whether the college can get out of its contract with Weldon.

Several departments that reported to Hansen, including human resources, communications and the college foundation, will report to Meyer in the interim.

Otherwise, life wasn’t much different Friday.

“Things are kind of low-key around here today,” Meyer said.