*The University of Connecticut is the latest to revoke an honorary degree given to Bill Cosby.
Trustees voted unanimously to rescind the Doctor of Fine Arts given to Cosby in 1996, saying Wednesday he engaged in conduct “incongruent” with the university’s values, according to reports.
Cosby is accused of drugging and molesting dozens of women over a 50 year span. He is charged criminally in connection with allegations by one woman in Pennsylvania and faces lawsuits by others in states including Massachusetts, where he and his wife have a home in Shelburne Falls. Cosby has denied all allegations.
UConn’s resolution mentions Cosby’s admitted testimony in lawsuit depositions. In one deposition, he said he had affairs with young models and actresses and obtained quaaludes to give to women he wanted to have sex with.
“The University respects the principles of due process and Mr. Cosby’s right to a fair and public trial on the criminal charges against him,” the resolution says. “But the conduct which he admitted in his sworn testimony provides compelling reasons for the University of Connecticut to consider the revocation of his honorary degree.
“This is an extraordinary action that is not being taken lightly,” the resolution says.
The Undergraduate Student Government asked trustees in March to join the more than two-dozen other colleges and universities around the country who have rescinded Cosby’s honorary degrees or are considering doing so.
Officials said this is the first time UConn has ever revoked an honorary degree.
