Melania Trump to get 'Woman of Distinction' award from Florida university, event tickets vanish in a jiffy
Melania Trump is set to be honored for her work with children under the White House's "Be Best" initiative.
The Palm Beach Atlantic University has decided to name the First Lady as an honoree of its Women of Distinction event, a luncheon held annually to award those who have made "significant contributions" to the community, Newsweek reports.
The proceeds from the lunch will go towards a scholarship fund for female students at the university. The event is slated to be held at The Breakers Resort on February 19.
"In her role as First Lady, Mrs. Trump focuses her time on the many issues affecting children. An unwavering characteristic of the First Lady is her aptitude for showing love and compassion in all that she does," Palm Beach Atlantic University said in a statement. "Mrs. Trump has traveled across the country and internationally to highlight programs and people who are dedicated to helping children overcome these modern-day concerns."
Speaking to Newsweek, a Palm Beach Atlantic University spokesperson revealed how tickets for the event sold out within moments after it came to light the first lady had "indicated her interest in attending."
The Be Best campaign -- launched in May 2018 -- focuses its efforts on the "three pillars" of children's safety—well-being, social media use and the opioid crisis.
Melania has, at times, been criticized for spearheading the campaign but refusing to speak out against her husband President Donald Trump's controversial comments.
Nonetheless, the university believes she deserves the honor for being "an exquisite human being, a magnificent wife and life partner, a superb mother and an outstanding First Lady" who represents the U.S. "brilliantly" both at home as well as overseas.
Speaking to the Palm Beach Post, Eileen Burns, co-chair of the event, described Melania as the "perfect example of a Woman of Distinction" and said they were "most proud to honor her."
