Baylor’s Board of Regents voted Thursday to rescind the honorary degree given to Bill Cosby in 2003. The decision was made amid the controversy surrounding Cosby’s multiple past sexual assault accusations.
“Baylor University is working to confront the scourge of interpersonal and sexual violence wherever it occurs,” according to a statement from the university.
“Because acts of interpersonal and sexual violence contradict our very mission and values, Baylor University is investing significantly to ensure the safety of our campus. Through the efforts of our Title IX Office, we are encouraging victims to report acts of interpersonal and sexual violence, and making sure those suffering from the effects of such acts are provided the necessary support and services to feel safe and be academically successful. It is against this backdrop that Baylor’s Board of Regents has decided to take this action.”
The honorary doctor of humane letters degree was awarded to Cosby during a spirit rally on Sept. 4, 2003, at Floyd Casey Stadium with more than 20,000 Baylor students, faculty, staff and Central Texans in attendance.
In the last year, Cosby has faced over 40 sexual assault accusations and heavy public backlash. Other institutions to rescind Cosby’s honorary degrees are Marquette University, Wilkes University, Fordham University, Brown University and University of San Francisco.
