Howard University Board Of Trustees Approves The Return Of Honorary Degree Conferred To Diddy

The Howard University Board of Trustees, in a unanimous decision during their scheduled meeting on June 7, 2024, has accepted the return of the honorary degree previously conferred upon Mr. Sean Combs in 2014. This action includes revoking all associated honors and privileges, prompting the removal of Mr. Combs’ name from all records listing honorary degree recipients of Howard University.

The decision stems from recent video footage capturing behavior deemed incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs. In response, the Board finds Mr. Combs no longer deserving of the institution’s highest honor.

Howard University remains steadfast in its condemnation of all forms of interpersonal violence. Consequently, the University administration has been directed to promptly undertake several actions. These include terminating a 2016 gift agreement with Mr. Combs, dissolving the scholarship program bearing his name, refunding his $1 million contribution, and ending a 2023 pledge agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation.

It’s important to note that no payments towards the $1 million pledge have been received from the Sean Combs Foundation to date, and therefore no funds are owed to be returned under the 2023 pledge agreement.