Howard University’s board has made a significant decision, voting to strip Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs of his honorary degree.
Following the release of a CCTV video by CNN depicting the hip-hop producer striking an ex-girlfriend in a hotel hallway, Howard University announced on Friday that Sean “Diddy” Combs would be stripped of his honorary degree.
The university cited his actions, as captured in the video, as “fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs,” leading to the decision to revoke his highest honor.
Despite Combs’ apology for the attack on singer Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura, the university deemed him unworthy of retaining the accolade.
Mr. Combs expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I was disgusted when I did it. I’m disgusted now.” He acknowledged seeking professional help, including therapy and rehab, and asking for forgiveness from God, expressing deep regret by saying, “I’m so sorry.”
Howard University, which awarded Mr. Combs an honorary degree in 2014, announced its decision to revoke it in response to his behavior.
Additionally, the university revealed plans to discontinue a scholarship bearing his name and to terminate a 2016 “gift agreement,” involving a $1 million donation from his foundation. Despite attempts to reach out, the Sean Combs Foundation did not respond to requests for comment.
The university emphasized its firm stance against interpersonal violence, stating that Mr. Combs’ name would be removed from all documents listing honorary degree recipients.
Four women, including his former long-time partner Ms. Ventura, have filed lawsuits against the musician, alleging sexual and physical abuse.
Despite settling Ms. Ventura’s lawsuit in November, Mr Combs maintains his innocence and denies all sexual assault accusations.
In a statement released last December, Mr Combs vehemently denied the “sickening allegations” brought against him by individuals seeking monetary gain.
Mr Combs asserted, “Let me be absolutely clear: I am innocent of the heinous acts being accused of,” vowing to vigorously defend his reputation.
Federal agents conducted raids on two properties owned by the star in March as part of an ongoing investigation into sex trafficking.
His attorney criticized the raids as an “unprecedented ambush” and an excessive use of force, while continuing to assert his client’s innocence.
