Sean “Diddy” Combs performed at the Howard University homecoming on Friday, but he had more to offer than just music. The music and entertainment mogul donated $1 million to the HBCU.
Combs appeared at Howard’s annual Yardfest, performing a medley of his greatest hits, according to ABC News 7. Following his performance, Combs presented the school and school president, Dr. Ben Vinson III, with a check for $1 million.
“His gift will have a profound impact on our students, paving the way for future leaders,” said Vinson. “We are honored to have Sean Combs as a part of our Bison family.” Combs stated it is essential to “protect and uphold” the values of historically Black colleges.
“This donation to Howard is not just a financial contribution; it’s also a reaffirmation of our commitment to a cultural institution that has touched countless lives,” Combs said. “It’s about ensuring that HBCUs continue to receive the support they rightfully deserve.”
The Bad Boy Records founder attended Howard University as a business major, according to Complex. Although he dropped out to work for Uptown Records, where he began his career as a record executive, he received an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities from Howard in 2014.
Combs’ donation completes his pledge to give money to HBCUs at the 2022 BET Awards during his Lifetime Achievement Award acceptance speech. At the time, he promised to provide $1 million each to Howard and to Jackson State University (JSU). Combs presented JSU and its football team the donation during halftime of a school football game earlier this year.
“It is my honor and my responsibility to support the HBCUs,” Combs wrote in an Instagram post of his interview with ESPN regarding the donation. “The work they are doing is to be commended! My grandmother raised me to sow my seed in my community, and that’s what I’m going to continue to do!!”
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