On Thursday, May 22, 2025, Kermit the Frog delivered the commencement address to the class of 2025 at the University of Maryland. The famed frog donned his cap and gown to deliver the speech at the university where Jim Henson and Jane Henson both graduated years before.
“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,” Kermit said. “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.”
Throughout his speech, Kermit delivered some words of wisdom. Many of them borrowing from themes of The Muppets through the years. “Life is not a solo act,” he said, “It’s a big, messy, delightful ensemble piece, especially when you’re with your people.”
“Because if I know a thing, it’s important to stay connected to your loved ones, stay connected to your friends, and most of all, stay connected to your dreams — no matter how big, no matter how impossible they seem. The truth is, dreams are how we figure out where we want to go and life is how we get there.”
The speech concluded with a performance of the Rainbow Connection. This came after Kermit quoted The Muppet Movie and then adding to the quote saying, “Life’s like a movie, write your own ending. Keep believing, keep pretending. You’ve all done just what you set out to do. And you’re just getting started!”
Jim Henson, who created the Muppets, graduated from the University of Maryland in 1960 with a Home Economics major. He created Kermit the Frog with one of his mother’s old coats and a ping pong ball. Henson, who died in 1990, is immortalized on the college campus with a bronze statue of Henson and Kermit sitting on a bench.
