‘No longer worthy’: Howard University strips Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs of honorary degree

Howard University, a historically-black university in Washington DC, has made the decision to revoke Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree.

This action was taken following the release of a CCTV video by CNN, which showed the hip-hop producer assaulting an ex-girlfriend in a hotel hallway.

In a statement released on Friday, the university expressed that Combs’ behavior, as depicted in the recently published video, is fundamentally inconsistent with the core values and beliefs of Howard University.

Consequently, he is no longer considered deserving of the institution’s highest honor. After the video’s release last month, the rapper issued an apology for his actions towards singer Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura. Combs expressed his disgust at his own behavior, both at the time of the incident and presently. He also shared that he sought professional help, attending therapy and rehab, and sought forgiveness from God.

He expressed deep remorse for his actions. In 2014, Howard University bestowed the honorary degree upon Combs. The university’s statement also mentioned the termination of a scholarship in his name and the discontinuation of a 2016 “gift agreement” with the rapper.

This agreement involved a $1 million donation made through his foundation. The Sean Combs Foundation did not provide any comment in response to the university’s decision. Furthermore, the university stated that Combs’ name would be removed from all documents listing recipients of honorary degrees.

The statement emphasized the university’s unwavering stance against all forms of interpersonal violence. It is worth noting that four women, including Combs’ former long-time partner Ms. Ventura, have filed lawsuits against him, accusing him of sexual and physical abuse. Ms. Ventura’s lawsuit was settled in November, and Combs has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual assault.