According to the graduation ceremony's theme, a popular quote by author J.K. Rowling, magic isn't necessary to change the world. But Liberty HS's renowned choral and orchestral performers lifted the thousands of students, staff and family members to near divine heights with their remarkable sounds at Stabler Arena June 3.

Pieces were set throughout the evening, particularly the Grenadiers' bagpipe classic "Amazing Grace" resounding with remarkable clarity in the huge hall. No magic needed; only talent.

Likewise mortal were the actions of Dan Douvanis, an elderly resident honored for his contributions to the city and country. Douvanis left Liberty HS before graduating in 1943 to join the war effort, and the gathered thousands gave a standing ovation as Principal Harrison Bailey bestowed on him an honorary certificate and an impressive array of five Bronze Stars owed him for his wartime heroism.

Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy commended the entire student body for its extraordinary efforts in education and for the community. He said they waved no magic wands, and the 546 diplomas distributed that evening were earned, not given. They had also performed 68,158 community service hours their senior year; more than double the required number.

One student in particular framed the possibilities given drive, perseverance and love.

Karen Vasquez's parents emigrated from Mexico without knowing so much as a scrap of English themselves, and through many personal hardships and separation, working multiple jobs yet always having time to support her children, her mother was witness to a top honors awardee and future scientist.

Vasquez said her parents faced a stark reality and decided to fight for the future in the United States. "They took the risk knowing they were leaving behind all their family. They knew they'd face many challenges where they had little money and didn't speak the language. They took the risk because their dreams of a better life for themselves and their children were greater than any fear they faced. My parents are my heroes and my greatest inspiration."

Vasquez said throughout high school she helped raise her younger siblings, volunteered and completed her schoolwork without the Internet, but her mother's life and work ethic opened her eyes to the possibilities in America. "I'm going to college so one day I can make an impact and inspire others," Vasquez said.

She now has a full-ride scholarship to Rice University in Houston, where she will study to become a biomedical engineer.

When the time came to use his authority and enact the official commencement of the collected students, BASD Board President Mike Faccinetto threatened to take 20 minutes reflecting on the lessons the class would take away with it, but he remained brief, highlighting favored moments for the graduates to recall fondly; Bailey taking the Ice Bucket Challenge in a kilt; the district THON raising more than $100,000 for combatting pediatric cancer; the return of the Liberty Bell from rival Freedom HS; and in particular several students who harassed him personally on Twitter throughout the year.

Faccinetto did touch on the evening's theme, reminding students, "We have all the power we need inside ourselves already. You need to take charge of your own life and find what inspires you."

Having found her inspiration, Vasquez suggested of the future, rather than getting bogged down or just settling for what you have, "Set one goal. Reach it. Enjoy the moment, and then set a thousand more."