Updated: 8:12 p.m. | CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords will make a surprise appearance at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday evening, Roll Call has confirmed.

She will deliver the Pledge of Allegiance, according to a source close to the former Congresswoman, kicking off the night that will culminate in President Barack Obama accepting the Democratic nomination for president.

Giffords spokeswoman Hayley Zachary confirmed that the former Congresswoman is in Charlotte but did not expound on her plans for the convention.

“I can confirm that Gabby is in Charlotte to attend the convention, and she is excited to be here,” Zachary said. “She does not have a role in tonight’s convention schedule.”

A Democratic National Convention Committee spokeswoman would not confirm the appearance but said Thursday’s podium schedule would be released later tonight.

Greta Van Susteren of Fox News first reported the news that Giffords had been spotted in town with her husband, Mark Kelly.

Giffords resigned from Congress earlier this year to focus on her recovery after being shot in the head in January 2011 when a gunman opened fire at a constituent event in Tucson, Ariz.