KEY POINTS

  • Melania Trump thanked the Palm Beach Atlantic University for the 2020 Woman of Distinction award 
  • Critics questioned Palm Beach Atlantic University's criteria in choosing the winners of the said award
  • Melania Trump launched the 'Be Best' campaign to focus on three pillars: well-being, online safety, and opioid abuse

Melania Trump continues to work hard to cater to the needs of the children and youth. In 2018, the First Lady of the United States launched the “Be Best” initiative, which focuses on encouraging the younger generation to strive hard and become the best versions of themselves in their chosen paths. The campaign, also, teaches the importance of physical, emotional and social health.

Recently, due to her commitment and dedication in helping curb and find ways to address some of the most palpable societal issues that youngsters face at present time, Palm Beach Atlantic University conferred the 2020 Woman of Distinction award to Melania. University president Bill Fleming revealed that it would be an “honorable thing” to acknowledge the FLOTUS’s efforts in campaigning against opioid abuse and highlighting the significance of general well-being and online safety.

“Our first lady is an exquisite human being, a magnificent wife and life partner, a superb mother and an outstanding first lady, who represents us brilliantly in the United States and worldwide,” Eileen Burns said in a statement, per Washington Examiner. “Melania is a perfect example of a Woman of Distinction and we are most proud to honor her,” the event co-chair and Mar-a-Lago member went on.

While avid supports of Melania Trump were delighted about the news, critics of the FLOTUS were quick to express their disgust and disappointments on social media. “It was bought and paid for, not earned,” Lorrie Mitchell alleged. “People are saying Melanie's ‘Be Best’ Campaign has been a total disaster! So SAD, and so true! FAKE AWARD!” one netizen wrote on Twitter. “This is just so wrong. She has done nothing vaguely good. I’m sure she got this pretty blue bowl by paying someone somewhere. Weekly fake smile for photo op. Sickening when I think of all the unsung women that really do positive things,” another user stated.

“Yup, really has created ‘positive’ impact. Children are embracing @realDonaldTrump & his method of dealing with people. Yup. They are now bullying kids just like 45* does. How about working on Donald to get him to stop HIS bullying,” a fourth netizen said. “what a joke! Name ONE achievement this movement is doing,” another Twitter user added. “She lives with the most vile, disgusting, online bully on the planet and said that with a straight face,” Laurencia Mata shared.

Melania Trump has yet to comment on these harsh remarks. Regardless of the doubts and mockery, the FLOTUS is very grateful for the University for recognizing her hard work. “Thank you @PBAUniversity for the 2020 Woman of Distinction award. It was wonderful to share the positive impact #BeBest has on communities across the country & inspiring to see a university so dedicated to teaching students the importance of giving back,” she penned on a tweet.

melania trump
First lady Melania Trump appointed Anna Cristina Niceta Lloyd (not shown) as White House social secretary. Above, at the 60th annual Red Cross Gala at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, Feb. 4, 2017. Carlos Barria/Reuters