Amidst allegations of sexual assault from multiple women, embattled actor and comedian Bill Cosby has stepped down Temple University's Board of Trustees. Cosby's resignation on Monday night ends his seat in the board, a position he's held for 32 years.
"I have always been proud of my association with Temple University," Cosby said in a statement released by the university, notes CNN. "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."
"The Board of Trustees accepts Dr. Cosby's resignation from the board and thanks him for his service to the university," responded Temple.
Over the last few days, leaders of the University have been mulling over how to handle the scandal involving one of the University's most identified icons. Philly.com noted that a number of trustees have publicly supported the 77-year-old alumnus.
According to NBC Philadelphia, Board chairman and attorney Patrick J. O'Connor says Cosby's decision to resign is a "noble thing."
During a phone call to NBC10's George Spencer, O'Connor further referred to Cosby as a "beacon of light" for the university.
[Cosby] "did the right thing for his love of this school," said the University official.
NBC noted that in a previous case, Connor defended the actor when a civil suit was filed by a former Temple University athletics employee. The woman claims that Cosby molested her in his home. The suit was settled but since then, more women have come forward.
Bill Cosby is facing claims of sexual assault from no less than twenty women. The comedian has repeatedly denied all accusations against him and has presently not been charged with any crime.
Former supermodel Janice Dickinson is one of the most recent women to come forward. She detailed that the incident took place in 1982 in Lake Tahoe where they shared dinner. She claims Cosby gave her a pill and red wine and shortly after, she passed out.
CNN quoted the former "American's Next Top Model" judge on her decision to come forward: "I am here for those women ... I want to validate these women and I want to applaud them for their courage." Dickinson continued, "But I'm strong, and I'm gonna stand on my own two feet and I'm gonna tell my side of the story, and it's not gonna end here."
