North Carolina State University blamed the recession in a letter firing former first lady Mary Easley, making no mention of a hiring flap that has led to several resignations.

The termination letter from Interim Chancellor Jim Woodward was released Thursday. The university announced Monday it's board of trustees had voted to end Easley's contract - which was paying her $170,000 a year to lead a speaker series and a public safety center - saying the duties for which she was hired no longer existed and that it was in the best interest of the university.

"I regret the necessity of this action," Woodward said in the letter dated Wednesday.

Woodward's letter blamed "the recent economic downturn" for a substantial reduction in financial support at the university that forced the campus to severely reduce or eliminate programs. He said the programs Easley was hired to administer or participate in will be among those affected.

Easley's attorney did not immediately return a call seeking comment. The wife of former Gov. Mike Easley said in a statement released Wednesday that she wanted everyone affiliated with the university "to now focus on the best welfare of the students."

Easley has ignored calls for her to resign despite requests from university leaders. Federal investigators have subpoenaed information about trips taken by the Easley family during Mike Easley's two terms in office and about Mary Easley's job.

Former chancellor James Oblinger resigned that same day, and e-mails showed he and former Gov. Mike Easley played a role in Mary Easley's hiring. The university's former provost and former chairman of the board of trustees have also resigned amid questions about how Easley got the job.