Temple University faculty voted this week in Philadelphia to condemn alumnus Bill Cosby, also calling for Temple president Neil Theobald to relieve Cosby of his honorary degree, according to Philadelphia Magazine. The decision for condemnation was because of the multiple allegations of sexual assault the comedian has faced during the past year. Upwards of 60 women have come out, expressing that they were drugged and raped by Cosby, in acts dating back to the 1960's. Cosby still denies the allegations.
He stepped down as trustee for the university in 2014, stating, "I have always wanted to do what would be in the best interests of the university and its students. As a result, I have tendered my resignation from the Temple University Board of Trustees," but there was a strong push from the students and faculty to take stronger measures against Cosby, according to USA Today.
The school's faculty also voted to condemn Chairman of the Trustees, Patrick O'Connor, an attorney who defended Cosby during another sexual assault lawsuit by a former Temple employee 10 years ago. The faculty said this caused a conflict. Despite this, O'Connor's law firm maintains that he acted within the rules of professional conduct, and properly consulted with the Temple board beforehand, according to the Associated Press.
O'Connor and members of the university are downplaying the vote, as only 40 faculty members out of the over 2,000 full-time members attended the meeting last week, according to USA Today.
Numerous universities associated with Cosby have already stripped him of honorary degrees and forced him to resign from their boards.
Cosby grew up in Philadelphia, and has always been close to Temple University, being a familiar face on campus, and attending commencement ceremonies and basketball games.
