Howard University Severs Ties with Sean 'Diddy' Combs After Controversial Video

Howard University has officially severed all connections with Sean “Diddy” Combs, rescinding an honorary degree previously awarded to him and dismantling a scholarship program bearing his name. This decision follows the release of a controversial video from 2016, which purportedly shows Combs assaulting the R&B singer Cassie.

In a stern statement, Howard University’s Board of Trustees expressed that “Mr. Combs' behavior, as depicted in the recently released video, is fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs, rendering him unworthy of the institution's highest honor.” The board emphasized the unanimous nature of their vote to revoke the honorary degree Combs received in 2014.

The board's statement further clarified the ramifications of this decision: “This acceptance revokes all honors and privileges associated with the degree. Consequently, the board has mandated the removal of his name from all documents listing honorary degree recipients of Howard University.”

Additionally, the board has instructed university administrators to sever financial ties with Combs. This includes returning a $1 million contribution, terminating the scholarship program, and dissolving a 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation.

In response to the university’s decision, a spokesperson for Combs was contacted by The Associated Press, but no comment was provided at the time of reporting.

The controversy surrounding Combs intensified last month when he publicly admitted to assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016, following the release of the video by CNN. In a social media video statement, Combs expressed deep remorse, stating, “I am truly sorry for my actions in that video. My actions were inexcusable. I take full responsibility for what I did. I was disgusted then, and I am disgusted now.”

The incident, which has drawn significant public and media attention, has led to a wave of similar allegations against Combs. A lawsuit filed last year by Cassie, legally known as Cassandra Ventura, sparked these revelations. The lawsuit has since been settled, but the repercussions continue to affect Combs’ public and professional life.

The decision by Howard University to cut ties with Combs marks a significant stance on maintaining the integrity of their values. The institution has underscored its commitment to aligning with individuals who reflect their ethical standards, particularly when it comes to respecting and safeguarding the well-being of others.

As the fallout from the video and the subsequent admissions by Combs continue, this development serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the impact of past actions on present associations and honors. Howard University’s actions signal a broader cultural shift towards greater scrutiny of public figures and the consequences they face for their actions.