Kermit the Frog from the Muppets Encourages University of Maryland Graduates to Take a Leap

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — In a time marked by economic uncertainty and political turmoil, navigating the transition from college to the real world can be a daunting task. Kermit the Frog is well aware of the challenges that come with being green and entering adulthood.

At the University of Maryland’s commencement ceremony for the class of 2025, graduates were not only celebrating their academic achievements but also receiving valuable advice from the iconic Muppet.

“As you prepare to embark on this journey into the real world, allow me to share a little wisdom – coming from a frog,” Kermit expressed. “Instead of stepping on others to get ahead, consider extending a helping hand and taking the leap together, for life is more fulfilling when we support each other.”

The university announced in March that Kermit, who was created in 1955 and became the centerpiece of the Muppets franchise, would be this year’s commencement speaker. He is also no stranger to the school.

Muppets creator Jim Henson graduated from Maryland in 1960. A home economics major, he fashioned the original frog puppet from one of his mother’s coats and a Ping-Pong ball cut in half, according to a statement from the university. Henson died in 1990.

A bronze statue of Henson and Kermit sitting on a bench is a well-known feature of the College Park campus.

In a video announcing the speaker pick, Kermit is described as an environmental advocate, a bestselling author, an international superstar and a champion of creativity, kindness and believing in the impossible.

His speaker bio calls him “a star of stage, screen and swamp” whose simple mission is to “sing and dance and make people happy.”

“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,” university President Darryll J. Pines said in a statement.