Judith Guthertz has resigned as president of Guam Community College, citing "tremendous talent available from others within the College who currently lead it as part of the Management Team."
In her resignation letter dated July 23, Guthertz acknowledged the letter may come as a "surprise" and be "very unusual" to read. She accepted the position one month ago but quickly determined her "professional services are really not needed as President at Guam Community College."
"This is not an easy decision on my part. I devoted seven long months of my professional life looking toward possible service as President at Guam Community College. ... I have absolutely no regrets and I am absolutely thrilled to be able to acknowledge that GCC is one of the best organized, operated and successful instrumentalities of our island government totally accountable fiscally and operationally to the people and students of Guam," Guthertz said in her resignation letter to GCC's Board of Trustees.
Guthertz's first day on campus was July 7 — the day after Super Typhoon Bavi struck — and her tenure, though brief, included guiding the college through typhoon recovery.
"I witnessed an extraordinary college community come together in one of its most challenging moments. Faculty, staff, and administrators responded with professionalism, compassion, and determination to restore campus operations and put students first. I leave with tremendous admiration for the people of Guam Community College and complete confidence that its future is exceptionally bright," Guthertz said.
Board Chair Carlo Leon Guerrero praised Guthertz for her "integrity, candor and commitment" to the college and described her leadership through typhoon recovery as "steady."
"We respect her decision and sincerely appreciate the grace and professionalism with which she has handled this transition. We wish her continued success in the next chapter of her distinguished career," Leon Guerrero said.
Guthertz's last day is July 31. The board has appointed Virginia Tudela as acting president effective Aug. 3.
Tudela is familiar with the role, having served as interim president prior to Guthertz's hire.
"I am honored by the confidence the Board has placed in me and grateful to Dr. Guthertz for her leadership and support during this transition," Tudela said. "Our immediate priority is ensuring that the College remains focused on serving our students, supporting our faculty and staff, and beginning the academic year successfully. GCC has always been a resilient institution, and together we will continue advancing our mission of preparing Guam's workforce and strengthening our community."
GCC said Tudela has decades of experience in higher education, workforce development and public service. The board is confident the transition will be "seamless."