The University at Buffalo has begun the process to revoke an honorary degree from Harvey Weinstein. The powerful film producer was presented an honorary SUNY doctorate from the school in 2000.
The university released the following statement:
"The university is well aware of the allegations involving Mr. Weinstein. The university has initiated the process, pursuant to the SUNY Board of Trustees policy, for the revocation of a SUNY honorary degree."
At the time, Weinstein was honored by the school for his impact on the film industry.
The media mogul has been at the center of a major scandal after a New York Times report revealed the film producer has been accused of sexual harassment many times spanning decades. From 1990 to 2015, Weinstein reached at least eight settlements with women.
According to SUNY's policies and procedures regarding honorary degrees, the Board of Trustees can revoke a degree if the recipient "has engaged in conduct that: 1) is inconsistent with the mission and/or values of the State University of New York; 2) undermines the accomplishments that were cited as the basis for awarding the honorary degree; or 3) is injurious to the reputation of the State University of New York or any of its constituent campuses".
If the Board of Trustees chooses to revoke the degree, the decision would have to be supported by SUNY's Chancellor.
