Guided by Katy Perry, Mustangs Graduate

Class of 2011 holds a special place in heart. So special that the Harford County executive quoted singer Katy Perry at Wednesday’s commencement.

“You're original, cannot be replaced. If you only knew what the future holds. Maybe you're the reason why all the doors are closed. So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road,” “Come on show 'em what you're worth. Make 'em go ah, ah, ah. You’re brighter than the moon, moon, moon. Boom, boom, boom."

Before Craig, a former teacher, became county executive in June 2005, he had been an assistant principal at when the seniors he addressed Wednesday were still in sixth grade.

“Many of you are a special group to me personally,” he added. “Of the 10,000 students I’ve worked with, you’re the last group that I ever got to work with and I miss doing that on a regular basis.”

The 29th graduating class, which earned more than $5.9 million in scholarship money, had co-valedictorians—.

But the pair's 4.3438 GPAs were not the only thing the students had in common.

“We also have the privilege of addressing you today as the cutest couple that never was in the Class of 2011,” said Michocki, drawing laughter from the crowd.

In addition to Craig, another platform guest had a strong connection to the departing seniors. Board of Education member taught many of the students while substitute teaching at .

“You were some cute little Squirrels,” said Krchnavy, referring to Hickory’s mascot. “But you turned into some mighty fine Mustangs.”

Concluding his speech, Hutcheson thanked parents, teachers, coaches and peers for their support.

“For those of you who were my friends, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. For those of you who have never been a friend to anyone—thank you,” Hutcheson joked. “We have so much more left in our lives, and in this room alone, there’s unlimited potential. You all can accomplish great things. … In the words of Winston Churchill: ‘Never ever, ever, ever, ever, ever give up.”