Michelle Obama is honoring the class of 2020 in a special way [1]. On Friday, the former first lady made an appearance during MTV's virtual Prom-athon [2] to share a few words of encouragement [3]. "Hey, class of 2020! Look, I know that none of you planned on missing out on so many senior-year milestones, things like sports tournaments or prom nights," she said. "But I am so proud of what I've seen from you all. You're persevering through everything you're facing. And look, there is no playbook for any of this, and yet you've shown creativity and resilience far beyond your years." She went on to encourage viewers to "breathe deep, dance your heart out, and enjoy this Prom-a-thon."

The event was held by MTV and When We All Vote [4], a nonprofit co-chaired by Michelle and Barack Obama that aims to increase voter participation. DJ Khaled, Chloe x Halle, and Janelle Monáe were among the stars who took part in the musical evening. Watch Michelle's full message ahead, and give it up for the class of 2020!

🎓CLASS OF 2020 🎓@MichelleObama [5] has a special message for you ahead of #MTVPromathon [6] tonight! Join the party at 9pm ET on MTV's YouTube! ✨ pic.twitter.com/QlJyciByku [7]

— MTV (@MTV) May 22, 2020 [8]