Howard University announced on Friday that they are severing ties with music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs due to a 2016 video showing him assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie. The Board of Trustees decided to disband a scholarship in Combs’ name, terminate a 2016 gift agreement where he pledged $1 million through his foundation, and accept the return of his honorary degree that was conferred in 2014. The decision was unanimous, and his name will be removed from all documents listing honorary degree recipients.
The move to cut ties with Combs comes as sexual assault allegations and legal challenges continue to mount against him. The singer Cassie, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, alleged in a since-settled federal lawsuit that Combs raped and physically abused her during their relationship. In May, a video was released showing Combs beating Cassie in 2016, matching the incident she detailed in her lawsuit. Combs issued an apology for the video, calling the behavior “inexcusable” and reflecting on it as one of his “darkest times.”
Howard University cited the recently released video as a factor in their decision to sever ties with Combs. The university stated that his behavior in the video is fundamentally incompatible with their core values and beliefs, making him unworthy of holding their highest honor. They emphasized their opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence and made the decision to revoke all honors and privileges associated with his honorary degree. Combs has denied all sexual assault allegations and has vowed to clear his name in the face of mounting legal challenges.
Since November, six women have come forward with assault allegations against Combs in lawsuits, which he has denied in previous statements. The decision by Howard University to cut ties with Combs reflects a growing concern over his behavior and actions, particularly in light of the video depicting the assault on Cassie. The video and allegations have raised questions about Combs’ character and values, leading to the revocation of honors and privileges associated with his honorary degree.
Despite Combs’ denial of the allegations and his intention to clear his name, Howard University’s decision to sever ties with him underscores their commitment to upholding their core values and beliefs. The university’s stance against interpersonal violence and their decision to revoke his honorary degree sends a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable and incompatible with their standards. As more allegations come to light and legal challenges continue, the fallout for Combs could have lasting repercussions on his reputation and professional relationships.
