Anderson Cooper, host of CNN’s “AC 360,” was given the Vito Russo Award by the media watchdog group GLAAD, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. According to Reuters, Madonna presented Cooper with the award on Saturday. The award is reportedly named after the HIV/AIDS activist Vito Russo, who was also one of GLAAD’s founders.

The Wisconsin Gazette, “the voice of progress for Wisconsin’s LGBT community,” reports that Madonna wore a Boy Scout uniform to the ceremony. During the presentation of the award, the singer and TV journalist shared a kiss.

Upon accepting the award, Cooper told the audience that “being gay is certainly one of the greatest blessings” of his life. Cooper came out in 2012. “The fact is, I’m gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn’t be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud,” Cooper wrote in an email to writer Andrew Sullivan.

Previously, Cooper had said that he would keep his personal life private, telling the New York magazine in 2005 that he didn’t want anything about his personal life to threaten his professional ability to “adapt with any group.”

According to a blog post on GLAAD’s website, Cooper has long been considered an advocate for the LGBT community. For his coverage of issues important to the LGBT community, the TV journalist has been nominated for seven GLAAD Media Awards and has taken home the trophy three times.

The blog post goes on to note that the Vito Russo Award is given to an openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender media professional who has worked hard to promote equality through his work. Ricky Martin, Rosie O’Donnell and Elton John have also been given this award.

Cooper wasn’t the only one receiving an award on Saturday. Director Bret Ratner received the ignoble Ally Award, after he used a derogatory word for homosexuals during a press conference a little over a year ago.

Do you think Cooper deserved this award? Share your thoughts in the comments section.