We applaud every person who has celebrated the completion of a course of study — or is about to do so.

Whether you’ve graduated from high school, a community college or a four-year university, you have reached a milestone and can celebrate personal achievement.

If you have completed a workforce training and are now certified to enter or advance in your chosen field, you can celebrate that achievement.

Each individual excels in some areas over others. Not everyone is proficient in every subject, field or discipline.

Hundreds of young men and women accepted their high school diplomas or GEDs this spring in our area. Some will go on to community college studies, others straight to a four-year institution. Some will begin workforce training. Some will go straight into a job or career.

Each one has a chance to make something of themselves, to succeed in education, work and life. Each one can be an example of positive attitude and perseverance.

No matter what path they choose, we applaud their efforts so far, and eagerly anticipate what they will do today and in the days ahead.

Make yourselves better. Make our community better. Make this nation and world better.

You can do it. We believe in you.