Drexel University rescinds honorary degree for Bill Cosby

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Drexel University has joined a number of schools in rescinding an honorary degree awarded to Bill Cosby amid accusations of sexual assault.

Drexel President John A. Fry says the misconduct that came to light in a deposition given by Cosby "stands in clear opposition" to the Philadelphia school's values.

He says in a letter today to the Drexel community that universities are "critical arenas" in addressing sexual violence and Drexel takes that responsibility seriously.

Cosby was given the honorary degree in 1992.

The comedian has never been charged with a crime and has denied allegations that he drugged and sexually assaulted women.

Drexel's neighbor, the University of Pennsylvania, has allowed Cosby to keep his honorary degree. Spokesman Stephen MacCarthy says that while Penn is deeply troubled by the allegations, "it is not our practice to rescind honorary degrees."