Leadership

Obama Pokes Fun at Bill Gates as He Awards Him Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Microsoft co-founder and wife Melinda were honored for their significant philanthropic work.

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

November 23, 2016 2 min read

You know you’ve made it when the president of the United States teases you about your lack of game.

This week, 21 luminaries from multiple industries -- including Ellen DeGeneres, Michael Jordan, architect Frank Gehry, Diana Ross, Tom Hanks, NASA engineer Margaret Hamilton and Bill and Melinda Gates -- were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian honor.

President Obama opened his remarks at the White House by joking about the genesis of the Gates’ relationship.

“We came close to missing out on Bill and Melinda Gates’s incredible partnership because apparently Bill’s opening line was, 'do you want to go out two weeks from this coming Saturday?' He’s good with computers, but you know… Fortunately Melinda believes in second chances and the world is better for it,” Obama said.

Citing the couple’s tireless work to provide medical care, education, clean water and a safe and healthy environment to millions, the president commended the pair of “impatient optimists” for their continued fight to improve the world.

Pres. Obama presents Bill and Melinda Gates with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. https://t.co/0eXXKsdH3I https://t.co/omMFVGOm6N
— ABC News (@ABC) November 22, 2016

Founded 16 years ago, today the Gates Foundation has a presence in all 50 states and more than 100 countries and is responsible for providing $36 billion in grants.

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