Kermit the Frog Encourages Graduates to ‘Leap Together’ in Inspiring Maryland Commencement Address
Graduating into an unpredictable world filled with political conflict, economic shifts, and global unrest isn’t easy — and Kermit the Frog knows a thing or two about things not being easy.
Speaking to the University of Maryland’s Class of 2025 on Thursday evening, the beloved Muppet offered a message of unity, kindness, and thoughtful progress. “Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want,” Kermit told the sea of graduates in caps and gowns, “consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together.”
The appearance was especially meaningful at Maryland, alma mater of Muppets creator Jim Henson, who graduated in 1960. Henson famously crafted the first Kermit puppet using his mother’s coat and a halved ping-pong ball. Today, a bronze statue of Henson and Kermit sitting together is a campus landmark in College Park.
Taking the stage in a miniature cap and gown, Kermit delivered what was dubbed the “ker-mencement” address, sprinkling humor and heart throughout. “You’re here to listen to a frog in a very tiny cap and gown,” he began to laughter and cheers, before urging the graduates to embrace their individuality and build meaningful relationships. “What is unique about you should always be shared,” he said. “That’s why I hang out with a bear, a pig, a penguin, a prawn and whatever Gonzo is.”
Drawing from his “swamp” upbringing, Kermit shared a cautionary tale about a cousin who used others as stepping stones to get ahead. “You’ve been told that’s how success works,” he said, “but I know it’s wrong.” The crowd responded with warm applause.
The university, which announced Kermit as its 2025 commencement speaker back in March, described him in a video introduction as more than a puppet: an environmental advocate, bestselling author, and international star whose mission is to “sing and dance and make people happy.”
University President Darryll Pines praised the world-renowned frog for his wisdom and his enduring message of acceptance. “My whole life I have tried to accept people for who they are,” Kermit told the graduates — a message as timeless as the Muppet himself.
