As Natchez area high school seniors graduate tonight, we wonder what the future has in store for them.

Or rather, what they have in store for the future. These teenagers have the potential to become the leaders of this community, just as so many of today’s bank presidents and elected officials and doctors and lawyers were once young, awkward students in the same schools.

Each of these students has the potential to succeed in his or her own way. Some already are making contributions:

Fred Marsalis Jr., who graduated last week from Vidalia High School, has a truckload of academic awards under his belt.

Adam Philley, an 18-year-old Monterey High graduate, coordinated a driver safety program that taught high school students about the dangers of drinking and driving.

Carly Turner, who graduates from Trinity Episcopal School tonight, spent the past year learning about government and politics as president of the Mayor’s Youth Council.

And John Scott Jr., who graduates from Natchez High School tonight after six years in Tommi Jones’ special education class. Scott will now continue his new job at McRae’s, a source of great pride for him and his family.

This is only a sampling of the stories of success from area high schools &045;&045; and it makes us optimistic about the future for the Miss-Lou.

In the middle of an election season, we of course talk often about the future of our community, but these young men and women embody our hopes. We have a responsibility to them to make Natchez a strong community &045;&045; and in return they have a responsibility to help further that goal.