Beleaguered actor and comedian Bill Cosby issued his resignation from the board of trustees of Temple University on Monday, and the university accepted.

While the university had not distanced itself from the comedian in the wake of over a dozen sexual assault allegations, Cosby thought it best to disassociate himself from his alma mater.

"I have always been proud of my association with Temple University," he wrote in a statement.

"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 Pennsylvania university issued a brief statement in response: "The Board of Trustees accepts Dr. Cosby's resignation from the board and thanks him for his service to the university."

Cosby received a track and field scholarship to Temple in 1961, but left two years later to pursue a career in comedy. He was awarded a bachelor's degree by the university in 1971, and became a member of the board in 1982.

Last week, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst announced that Cosby had stepped down from his position as honorary co-chairman of a $300 million fundraising campaign at the university's request.

The announcement followed a request by Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley for UMass to end its relationship with the 77-year-old.

Cosby received a Master's degree in Education from UMass-Amherst in 1972, and a doctorate in Education in 1976.

At least 20 women have accused Cosby of sexually assaulting or drugging them, with the first woman coming forward in 2005. Cosby has not been charged in any of the cases, and settled the 2005 case out of court. His attorney has called the allegations against him "ridiculous".