Heather Bradford talks with Kiara Burkes Friday night as they prepare for graduation. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Zana Kennedy waits for the Co-Lin Spring Commencement to begin. (Ben Hillyer / The NAtchez Democrat)

Verressia Chatman, Sondra Clemons and Kenisha Cogdell rehearse how to shake hands and accept their diplomas before the service Friday. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Demcrat)

Allison Carter adjusts her cap before the graduation ceremony Friday night. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Aja Coleman peeks into the convention hall before the spring commencement ceremony begins. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Copiah-Lincoln Community College graduates prepare for the beginning of the ceremony at the Natchez Convention Center Friday night. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Copiah-Lincoln Community College President Dr. Jane Hulon gives her remarks during the 2019 commencement ceremony. (file photo)

Copiah-Lincoln Community College President Dr. Jane Hulon speaks at a past event in this file photo. (File Photo / The Natchez Democrat)

Hall of Fame member Geovani Lara gives the commencement address Friday night. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Kiara Donaldson smiles as the graduating class in presented Friday night. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Vanessa James paid a tribute to her mom, who recently died. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Several graduates celebrate the occasion by decorating their caps. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

The graduating class of 2019 processes out of the convention center hall Friday night. (Ben hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)