You're more likely to hear a sharp criticism than praise from Donald Trump, but the real estate mogul has nothing but nice things to say about Liberty University.
"It's an amazing university," said Trump. "All over the world they're talking about Liberty University, what they've done, and in such a short time."
The kind words didn't last long.
Trump was the featured speaker at Liberty's convocation Monday, where he shared deep concerns about the United States and its leadership.
"The world is laughing at us," Trump said. "We're like a bunch of patsies. China is taking advantage of us like nobody has ever done before."
He mocked President Obama, and wondered why he's not receiving more criticism.
"He gets the greatest press of anybody I think I've ever seen," said Trump. "Talk about Teflon."
Trump was joined on stage by Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann, whose daughter attends Liberty.
After receiving an honorary doctorate degree from Liberty administrators, Trump encouraged students to be passionate about things they pursue, and "get even" with people who oppose them.
"You have to have the ability to handle pressure, and if you can't handle pressure, you have to know that," said Trump.
He also talked about his faith, calling himself a "real Christian."
"I always say have a prenuptial agreement," said Trump, who has been married to three different women. "I won't say it here, because you people don't get divorced, right?!"
School officials say Trump is the most popular speaker they've ever hosted. There weren't enough seats in the Vines Center Monday for everyone who wanted to see him.
Students had a positive reaction to what he had to say.
"I thought it was pretty entertaining," said LU student, Brandon Bester. "It was fun."
"Just because we have different beliefs, we still can take away a lot from what he said, and use it to succeed in business and life in the future," said Angela Fite, a freshman at Liberty.
Trump normally charges a large fee for his speaking engagements. He waived that charge for Liberty and spoke for free, adding that he hopes to return in the future.
Liberty University holds convocation three times every week. Previous guests have included Newt Gingrich, Rick Perry, and pastor Rick Warren. Economist Ben Stein and actor Kirk Cameron are scheduled to speak at convocation later this fall.
