Howard University in Washington, D.C. has revoked the honorary degree awarded to Sean Combs, aka Diddy, after a disturbing video emerged showing him physically assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016.
The university’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to rescind the honorary doctorate conferred upon Diddy in 2014, citing a significant breach of the institution’s core values.
Although Diddy did not graduate from Howard University, he had been recognized for his achievements in the music industry and philanthropic efforts.
However, the university has now distanced itself from the entrepreneur and rapper, emphasizing its commitment to upholding the values of respect, inclusivity, and social responsibility.
The statement partly read, “The Howard University Board of Trustees voted unanimously today to accept the return by Mr. Sean Combs of the honorary degree conferred upon him in 2014.
This acceptance revokes all honours and privileges associated with the degree.
“Accordingly, the Board has directed that his name be removed from all documents listing honorary degree recipients of Howard University.”
In addition to revoking the degree, the university will terminate a 2016 gift agreement with Combs, disband the scholarship programme established in his name, and return his $1 million contribution.
The statement added, “The Board has also directed the university administration to immediately take the following actions: terminate a 2016 gift agreement with Mr Combs, disband the scholarship programme in his name, return his $1 million contribution, and terminate a 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation.
“No payments towards the $1 million pledge have been due or made by the Sean Combs Foundation as of this date; therefore, no funds are due to be returned under the 2023 pledge agreement.”.
The statement added that Diddy is “deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honour” as a result of his behaviour in the recently released video, which is “fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs.”
“The university is unwavering in its opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence.
“The board and university administration have no further comment on this matter,” it added.
