Howard University has revoked Sean Comb honorary degree
Howard University’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to revoke Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree, citing his behavior in a recently released video as fundamentally incompatible with the university’s core values and beliefs. The video, which surfaced last month, shows Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura.
In addition to revoking the honorary degree, the university will also terminate a 2016 gift agreement with Combs, disband a scholarship program in his name, and return his $1 million contribution. The university emphasized its unwavering opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence, linking to its “Interpersonal Violence Prevention” webpage in its statement.
Combs’ actions have been the subject of multiple lawsuits and a federal investigation. In November 2023, Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura) filed a lawsuit accusing him of abuse and rape throughout their relationship. The video, which was taken on March 5, 2016, shows Combs grabbing, shoving, and kicking Cassie in a hotel hallway.
Combs has been named in eight lawsuits since November, with allegations of rape and sexual assault from several women. The US Department of Homeland Security’s investigative arm has launched a federal probe into Combs and allegations of sex trafficking. The surveillance video from the hotel could potentially become evidence in the federal investigation.
Howard University’s decision to revoke Combs’ honorary degree and terminate the gift and pledge agreements reflects the institution’s commitment to upholding its core values and beliefs, particularly in the face of serious allegations of interpersonal violence.
