The BET Awards were off the chain, and thanks to a surprise appearance by former First Lady Michelle Obama, everyone in the theater and those watching at home felt just a little bit better about themselves.

In a video message, Michelle congratulated Chance for his BET Humanitarian Award.

“Barack and I are so sorry we couldn’t be there tonight in person,” she said. “But, please know that we are with you in spirit. And we are so incredibly proud of you, Chance. We have known Chance and his family since he was a wee little baby rapper and it has been a thrill watching him come into his own in so many ways. In addition to making some really amazing music, Chance has been taking that big, bright spotlight that follows him around, and he’s shining it on young people in our hometown of Chicago.”

She continued: “Time and again he has been standing up, speaking out, and doing the work to get kids in our community the educations they deserve. And with these passionate efforts, Chance is showing our young people that they matter. That they have something inside of them that is worthy of being expressed and they have so much to contribute to their communities and to our country. Chance, you are an outstanding role model and an inspiration to all of us who care about our next generation. Because of you, countless young people will grow up believing in themselves, fulfilling their God given potential and then reaching back and lifting up other people along the way. I can think of no better legacy to leave, and I am thrilled to celebrate you here tonight and honored to call you my friend. Thanks so much for everything you do, congratulations, and God bless.”