As 18-year-old Texan Karlie Hay celebrated being crowned Miss Teen USA 2016 last Saturday, social media users began circulating tweets containing the N-word that were linked to an account bearing her name. The offending tweets were posted in 2013 and 2014.

That Twitter account is now private and locked, but Hay issued an apology early Sunday morning on her public Miss Texas Teen Twitter account – although her statement didn’t specifically acknowledge the racial slurs.

“A few years ago, I used language that is inexcusable, and I sincerely apologize for my actions,” Hay wrote. “At the time, due to a number of personal struggles, I was in a place that is not representative of who I am now.

“Through hard work, education, maturity and thanks in large part to the sisterhood that I have come to know through pageants, I am proud to say that I am today a better person. I am honored to hold this title and I will use the Miss Teen USA platform to promote messages of confidence, inclusion and perseverance.”

This did not admit the direct question — did she use those words on social media?

The Miss Universe Organization responded to the backlash in a statement to ABC 13.

“As Karlie stated, she was in a different place in her life and made a serious mistake she regrets and for which she sincerely apologizes,” the statement read. The organization condemned Hay’s language but showed its support for Hay by saying it is “committed to supporting her continued growth.”

This did not satisfy those on social media, nor does it satisfy me.

Actions have consequences.  Life lesson number one.

Also, the Internet never forgets.  Life lesson number two for the modern times.

You want to be a role model for teens?  Then you take the fall so at least THIS younger generation learns, Miss Hay.

Just give it to one of the other finalists.  It’s not like anyone is going to tell the difference.