In a unanimous decision, Howard University’s Board of Trustees has voted to revoke the honorary degree conferred upon Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2014. The decision comes after Combs admitted to physically abusing his then-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura), in a hotel hallway in 2016. The altercation was captured on video, which recently surfaced and corroborated allegations made in a lawsuit filed by Ventura last November.
The University released a lengthy statement explaining the decision, emphasizing that Combs’ behavior, as shown in the video, is “fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs.” As a result, the institution deemed Combs “no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor.” The statement also highlighted the University’s unwavering opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence.
In addition to revoking the honorary degree, the University has terminated a 2016 “gift agreement” with Combs, disbanded the scholarship program in his name, and returned his $1 million contribution. A 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation has also been terminated, with no payments having been made, thus requiring no funds to be returned. Combs attended Howard University as a student from 1987 to 1989.
Ventura and Combs settled the November lawsuit just one day after it was filed, with both parties issuing vague statements about resolving matters amicably. Combs’ lawyers emphasized that the settlement was not an admission of wrongdoing and did not undermine his denial of the claims.
Following the release of the 2016 altercation footage by CNN, Combs apologized for his behavior in an Instagram video message, admitting he was “fucked up” and had hit “rock bottom.” He took full responsibility for his actions, describing them as “inexcusable” and “disgusting.” Combs also revealed that he sought professional help, including therapy and rehab, and asked for God’s mercy and grace.
Since Ventura’s lawsuit, Combs has been hit with three additional lawsuits alleging sexual assault, and in February, former associate Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones filed a suit claiming unwanted sexual advances and coercion to hire and engage with sex workers.
The revocation of Combs’ honorary degree by Howard University serves as a strong statement against interpersonal violence and highlights the institution’s commitment to upholding its core values and beliefs.
Credit: Variety
