Howard University Revokes Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Honorary Doctorate Degree amid Abuse Allegations

Howard University has made a bold and decisive move by severing all ties with Sean “Diddy” Combs, including revoking his honorary doctorate degree. This decision comes in the wake of disturbing video footage showing Combs violently assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.

The university’s Board of Trustees deemed Combs’ behavior as “fundamentally incompatible” with Howard University’s core values and beliefs. In addition to rescinding his honorary degree, the university has also terminated the scholarship program in his name and returned a recent $1 million donation made by the rapper.

Members of the Howard community have expressed support for the university’s decision. Recent graduate Amya Henry stated, “It’s good to show that even though [Combs] has brought success to the school, if he doesn’t align with the values of Howard, he shouldn’t be celebrated.” Alumna Pauline Tetteh criticized the university for acting too slowly in denouncing Combs, highlighting the neglect of Black women in such situations.

The revocation of Combs’ honorary degree has sparked a conversation about the significance of such accolades. Howard student Zamoi Murrell called the degree “stupid,” emphasizing the hard work and financial investment that students put into earning their degrees compared to celebrities who receive honorary degrees based on fame and wealth.

As the fallout from the video continues, other celebrities and organizations have joined in condemning Combs’ actions, further igniting the conversation around accountability and values in the public eye.