Today is an important day in the lives of hundreds of young adults in our community.

At 10 a.m. today, Saturday, May 11, Bainbridge State College held its spring commencement ceremony. While this event is always a great occasion, it has extra significance this year because it is the first time graduates will receive diplomas that say “Bainbridge State College” on them. Hank Huckaby, the chancellor of the University System of Georgia, was scheduled to be the keynote speaker, and will no doubt be proud of the changes that have already taken place at BSC.

We applaud the graduates for taking the initiative to improve their education, and their prospects for higher-paying and more secure employment. We realize that it is very difficult, in this economic climate, to find the time, money and energy that is required to be a full-time student. We also thank the students’ families, who often made sacrifices of their own to allow these BSC graduates to achieve their academic and life goals.

The success of these graduates is something that the entire community can be proud of. Congratulations, class of 2013.