Howard University strips Diddy of honorary degree
Howard University’s board, a historically-black institution located in Washington DC, has decided to revoke Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree. This move follows the release of a CCTV video by CNN showing the hip-hop producer involved in an altercation with an ex-girlfriend in a hotel corridor.
In a statement released on Friday, the university expressed that Combs’ actions, as depicted in the recently surfaced video, stand in direct contrast to the core values and beliefs of Howard University. Consequently, he is deemed unworthy to uphold the institution’s highest honor.
The rapper issued an apology following the video’s circulation last month, acknowledging his wrongdoing in the incident involving singer Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura. “I was disgusted when I did it. I’m disgusted now,” Combs stated in his apology. He further shared his efforts in seeking professional help through therapy and rehabilitation, along with seeking forgiveness from a higher power.
The honorary degree was conferred upon Combs by Howard University in 2014. The university’s statement also mentioned the discontinuation of a scholarship bearing his name and the termination of a 2016 “gift agreement” with the rapper, which constituted a $1 million donation through his foundation.
The Sean Combs Foundation did not respond to a request for comment.
The university’s statement said Mr Combs’ name would be removed from all documents listing honourary degree recipients.
“The University is unwavering in its opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence,” the statement said.
Four women, including his former long-time partner Ms Ventura, have filed lawsuits against the musician, accusing him of sexual and physical abuse.
Ms Ventura’s lawsuit was settled in November, and Mr Combs has denied all sexual assault allegations.
In a statement issued last December, Mr Combs defended himself against what he described as “sickening allegations” made by “individuals looking for a quick payday”.
“Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged,” he said, adding he would fight to clear his name.
In March, federal agents raided two houses owned by the star “as part of an ongoing investigation” into sex trafficking.
His lawyer called the action an “unprecedented ambush” and a “gross overuse of military-level force”, and maintained his client’s innocence.
