Bill Cosby Resigns As Board Of Temple University Trustees

Comedian Bill Cosby has resigned from the board of trustees at Temple University amid allegations that he sexually assaulted more than a dozen women.
The comedian, 77, is one of the Philadelphia school's most famous alumni and had served on its board since 1982.  In a statement released by the university, Cosby said his decision to quit was in the best interests of his alma mater.

"I have always been proud of my association with Temple University," he said."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."

Board chairman Patrick O'Connor accepted Cosby's resignation and thanked the entertainer for his service to the university.

Mr O'Connor defended Cosby in a civil suit filed in 2005 by former Temple basketball employee Andrea Constand, who accused Cosby of molesting her at his suburban Philadelphia mansion.

Cosby and Ms Constand agreed to an undisclosed settlement in the case.  Several other colleges have also severed ties with Cosby as more women levelled allegations of abuse.

The former star of the 1980s TV hit The Cosby Show has refused to discuss the allegations raised in recent weeks by numerous women that he had sexually assaulted them decades ago.

Some claimed they were drugged and then molested.  Cosby's lawyers have said the allegations were "discredited" and "defamatory" and the comedian has not been charged.