• Kermit the Frog served as the commencement speaker for the University of Maryland's Class of 2025.
• The speech highlighted themes of collaboration, kindness, and believing in the impossible.
• Kermit references his origins from creator Jim Henson, a Maryland alumnus.

At the University of Maryland, Kermit the Frog delivered a unique commencement speech to the Class of 2025, emphasizing that it’s not easy graduating during turbulent times. Kermit noted, “As you prepare to take this big leap into real life, here's a little advice — if you're willing to listen to a frog," encouraging graduates to “leap together” rather than stepping over each other to achieve their goals, reflecting on the importance of collaboration during challenging times, according to NPR and HuffPost.

Kermit, who became emblematic of the Muppets since his inception in 1955, is also linked to the university through Jim Henson, his creator and a Maryland alumnus. Henson graduated in 1960 and initially built Kermit from his mother’s coats and a ping-pong ball, a story that resonates with the heritage of the institution. A statue of Henson and Kermit adorns the College Park campus, symbolizing their lasting legacy, explained both NPR and NY Times.

In his light-hearted manner, Kermit shared his personal wisdom with the graduates, reinforcing that “life is not a solo act; no, it’s not. It’s a big, messy, delightful ensemble piece." He quoted, “Life is better when we leap together,” encouraging graduates to support one another as they embark on their new journeys. Kermit's engaging address also included reflections on the nature of dreams and connectivity, resonating with the experiences of the students, as noted by HuffPost and NY Times.