Howard University revokes Diddy's honorary degree, returns $1 million donation

WASHINGTON (7News) — Howard University’s Board of Trustees unanimously voted Friday to revoke Sean “Diddy” Combs’ honorary degree and return a $1 million contribution and other gifts given by the rapper.

The university awarded an honorary degree to Diddy in 2014. The board’s decision Friday revokes all honors and privileges associated with the degree.

His name will also be removed from all documents listing honorary degree recipients of Howard University, the board said in a statement.

READ MORE | Cassie Ventura breaks silence after Diddy assault video surfaces

This comes as Diddy is facing multiple sexual assault and rape allegations. In November, he was sued by R&B singer Cassie who said she suffered a yearslong abusive relationship with Diddy.

Diddy settled the lawsuit a few days after it was filed.

On Tuesday, AP reported that Diddy sold his stake in Revolt, the media company he founded over a decade ago shortly after security footage appeared to show Diddy attacking then-girlfriend Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel.

“Mr. Combs’ behavior as captured in a recently released video is so fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs that he is deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor,” the board said. “The University is unwavering in its opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence.”

READ MORE | Video shows Sean 'Diddy' Combs appearing to assault Cassie Ventura: report

The board also voted to terminate a 2016 gift agreement with Diddy, disband the scholarship program in his name and return his $1 million donation given during his 2023 homecoming performance.

A 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Diddy Combs Foundation was also terminated.

“No payments toward the $1 million pledge have been due or made by the Sean Combs Foundation as of this date, therefore no funds are due to be returned under the 2023 pledge agreement,” the board said.