Laura Velderman graduates from Hopkins as a Marine

Laura Velderman (right) officially concluded her unusual high school career this week at the Hopkins High School commencement, receiving her diploma from Ken Szczepanski, high school principal and secondary curriculum coordinator. She graduated at the top of her class as a U.S. Marine, fulfilling her requirements this past winter. She also was famous as a state qualifying long distance runner in track and cross country and as a trumpet player and drum major of the Vikings’ marching band. (Photo supplied)