Dressed in gold to commemorate the year 2000, Natchez High’s senior class became alumni Friday night.

&uot;We’re very nervous, but very excited and happy at the same time,&uot; said Irma Logan as she prepared to march in the processional.

At Natchez High’s 11th commencement, 282 seniors, including 23 who received special education certificates, walked across the stage at the Natchez High Stadium to receive their diplomas.

&uot;Congratulations to the Class of 2000,&uot;&160;said senior Denise Ann Morgan. &uot;I pray that everybody prospers and succeeds&uot; in what they do.

The senior class voted to wear gold gowns this year to be different from previous classes, said Superintendent Dr. Carl Davis.

Valedictorian April Patton told classmates to take a moment to reflect.

She also told them to remember Friday night marked the end of an era.

&uot;We sit here as proof of hope for the future,&uot; Patton said.

Salutatorian Yolunda Nelson encouraged her classmates to have the right attitude towards success. &uot;Success is not making the most money,&uot; she said. &uot;Success is achieving the goal one set out to obtain.&uot;

Friday’s program also included performances by the Natchez High School band and choir.

&uot;Tonight we share an achievement,&uot;&160;Patton said. &uot;Class of 2000, congratulations.&uot;