Kermit the Frog Inspires Graduates at Maryland Commencement

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Kermit the Frog, the famous green Muppet, served as the commencement speaker for the University of Maryland’s class of 2025 on Thursday evening. As graduates prepared to enter the real world, Kermit shared motivational advice amid ongoing economic challenges.

In a heartfelt address, Kermit encouraged graduates to support one another as they embark on new journeys. “Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want, consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together,” he said during the ceremony.

This was not Kermit’s first commencement speech; he last spoke at Southampton College of Long Island University in 1996. The Muppet is especially connected to the University of Maryland as Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, graduated from there in 1960. A bronze statue of Henson and Kermit can be found on campus, symbolizing this link.

Before his speech, Kermit appeared on “CBS Mornings,” expressing excitement yet acknowledging some pre-speech jitters. “If my speech can give the graduates a leg up on their exciting new adventures, I guess I’m going to feel like I’ve accomplished something amazing,” he said.

In the audience, many graduates noted the unique nature of having a Muppet as a speaker. Kermit came dressed in his traditional style, showcasing his identity as a beloved children’s character and environmental advocate. University President Darryll J. Pines expressed pride in hosting Kermit, stating, “I am thrilled that our graduates and their families will experience the optimism and insight of the world-renowned Kermit the Frog at such a meaningful time in their lives.”

Kermit concluded his speech with a message of belief and perseverance, emphasizing that graduates should keep faith in themselves beyond their time in college.