In a unanimous decision by its board of trustees, Howard University has withdrawn the honorary degree it awarded to Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2014, citing actions that starkly conflict with the university’s foundational values. The institution, a prestigious historically Black university located in Washington, D.C., will also return a $1 million donation from Combs and end a pledge agreement with his foundation.
The board’s decision came after disturbing footage surfaced showing Combs engaged in violent behavior towards his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, back in 2016. The incident, captured in a Los Angeles hotel, involved Combs physically assaulting Ventura, an act that Howard University stated was “fundamentally incompatible” with its values.
“Mr. Combs’ actions, as depicted in the video, profoundly contradict the ethos of respect and dignity that Howard University stands for,” the university stated. Despite Combs’ public apology, the university has taken steps to dissociate itself from the mogul’s legacy, emphasizing its strong stance against all forms of interpersonal violence.
The revocation of Combs’ degree is particularly notable given his previous connection to the university. Combs, who attended Howard as a business major before leaving to pursue his music career, had returned in 2014 to receive his honorary degree and give the commencement speech.
This decision underscores Howard University’s dedication to maintaining the integrity and values it instills in its students. As an institution that has nurtured numerous notable figures in arts, politics, and culture, Howard continues to uphold a standard of excellence and respect across its extensive community.
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