First Lady Michelle Obama announces the Best Picture Oscar to Argo live from the Diplomatic Room of the White House, Feb. 24, 2013. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

WASHINGTON--First Lady Michelle Obama made a surprise appearance at the Academy Award broadcast announcing the Best Picture live from the White House, with the Oscar going to Argo.

I asked Mrs. Obama's office for the back story and was told by Kristina Schake, her communications director, "The Academy Awards approached the First Lady about being a part of the ceremony. As a movie lover, she was honored to present the award and celebrate the artists who inspire us all - especially our young people - with their passion, skill and imagination."

Mrs. Obama wore a Naeem Khan gown for the announcing chores she shared with actor Jack Nicholson on the Oscar stage.

Shortly after, Mrs. Obama said via Twitter, " It was a thrill to announce the #Oscars2013 best picture winner from the @WhiteHouse! Congratulations Argo!"

Earlier in the evening Mrs. Obama and President Barack Obama hosted the nations governors at their annual White House Dinner. She wore the same gown at that dinner as she did for her Oscar stint, done from the Diplomatic Room. She was flanked by members of the military who also serve as social aides for White House events.

It was a thrill to announce the #Oscars2013 best picture winner from the @whitehouse! Congratulations Argo! -mo

— FLOTUS (@FLOTUS) February 25, 2013