In the next couple weeks, high school and college seniors will be dawning their caps and gowns across Lawrence County and at various colleges and universities around the region.

While some may already know what degree or career they want to pursue, some haven’t made a decision yet.

Either way, knowing that you can become anything you want with hard work and dedication will be a major key to success as you move forward with life.

Another key is continuing to have a positive outlook, which will be critical as well. We all know that it is certainly easy to get down with things like the current economy, challenging employment market or your coursework seems overwhelming.

But the ability to not look at what is here now, but rather what can be in the future, is paramount.

And the realization of your goals will require a positive attitude and hard work. Strive to be the best, and don’t ever give up on your dreams.

You, the graduates of 2017, will be the future leaders of our businesses, civic organizations, churches and communities.

Don’t let anything get in the way of reaching your full potential.