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Kermit the Frog Delivers Heartfelt Commencement Address at University of Maryland
Graduates at the University of Maryland found inspiration and a touch of nostalgic charm as Kermit the Frog took to the podium to deliver their commencement address this past Thursday. Introduced as a celebrated “star of stage, screen and swamp” and a seven-time bestselling author, the beloved Muppet addressed an audience of thousands, sharing wisdom gleaned from decades in the spotlight.
Donning a perfectly fitted, tiny cap and gown, Kermit captivated the crowd, encouraging the new alumni to prioritize connection, embrace leadership, and value their relationships. “There’s no guarantee that the show is always good or that it’ll go without a hit… But the show must go on,” he shared, his speech peppered with familiar Muppet-themed humor. “And if you are with your people, then you won’t have to do it alone. It is a big messy, delightful ensemble piece, especially when you are with your people.”
Related – Kermit the Frog to Deliver commencement address at Jim Henson’s alma mater
Drawing on his own experiences, Kermit urged the graduates to embrace risk and chase their aspirations, regardless of their scale. “Dreams are how we figure out where we want to go, and life is how we get there,” he stated, his voice clear and resonant. He advised them to believe in their dreams, “no matter how big, no matter how impossible they seem.”
True to his diplomatic nature, Kermit steered clear of controversial subjects, focusing instead on universal themes of hope and togetherness. The 12-minute address culminated in a heartwarming sing-along of his iconic anthem, “Rainbow Connection,” with graduates joyfully waving and singing along. Following the speech, Kermit was honored with a governor’s citation, recognizing his service as an outstanding citizen.
The choice of speaker was far from random. Kermit, voiced at the ceremony by Matt Vogel (who took over the role in 2017 and also performs Big Bird), holds deep roots at UMD. His creator, the legendary Jim Henson, first brought the character to life while he was a student on the campus in the 1950s. This connection is immortalized by a bronze statue in the Jim Henson Memorial Garden, depicting Henson and Kermit in perpetual conversation on a bench. Kermit even fondly recalled UMD’s past, joking, “Back then, they even had mosquito sprinkles for your ice cream. I miss that.”
The green amphibian’s message emphasized collaboration over competition. “Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want,” he advised, “consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together.”
The unique choice of speaker was met with enthusiasm. “He could be such an interesting commencement speaker that I’ll remember for a long time,” said Jack Collier, 22, a finance and information systems graduate, prior to the ceremony. “Kermit is a big part of the history of the campus too… I think if they can make it [sound] like the Kermit that everyone’s used to, it could be pretty cool.”
Judging by the cheers and the chorus of “Rainbow Connection,” the university succeeded, providing its graduates with a memorable, and distinctly hopeful, send-off into their futures.
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