Former Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance at Compton High School’s graduation on June 5, joining more than 300 seniors and their families in a celebration held at the school’s new football stadium.

Although Harris did not deliver a speech, she stayed on stage throughout the ceremony. In a post on X, she said she was personally invited by graduating senior MyShay Causey, who met Harris while working at a restaurant where Harris and her husband were dining.

“She wrote a note to me and shared it with him, telling me about her incredible work in her community and her dream to work in education policy,” Harris wrote. “We spoke on the phone, and she invited me to attend Compton High School’s graduation. It was my honor to attend her ceremony today and celebrate the outstanding Class of 2025.”

Graduates took selfies with Harris and cheered her unexpected visit.

According to the district, 87% of Compton High seniors were accepted into community and four-year colleges, including UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, and Cornell. The district called the moment “more than just a graduation — it’s a moment that will live on in Compton history.”