Kermit the Frog, the beloved Muppet character, has been announced as the official commencement speaker for the University of Maryland’s 2025 graduation ceremony. The university revealed that Kermit will be delivering the commencement speech on Wednesday, May 21, bringing a touch of whimsy to the milestone event for graduating students.
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The University of Maryland is no stranger to Kermit the Frog, as the iconic puppet’s appearance is said to honour the long-standing connection between the university and Muppets creator Jim Henson. Henson, who graduated from UMD in 1960, has a special place on the campus with a bronze statue of himself and Kermit located in a campus garden outside the student center.
In a video unveiling the surprise commencement speaker, the university teased Kermit’s impressive credentials, describing him as an international superstar, best-selling author, environmental advocate, Peabody award winner, and a “friend to all creatures.” The video culminated in Kermit’s classic introduction, “Uh, I guess it’s me,” confirming his upcoming appearance at the ceremony.
Expressing his excitement for the upcoming event, Kermit shared, “Nothing could make these feet happier than to speak at the University of Maryland. I just know the class of 2025 is going to leap into the world and make it a better place, so if a few encouraging words from a frog can help, then I’ll be there!”
On the day of the graduation ceremony, Kermit will be voiced by Matt Vogel, who has been the puppeteer behind the character since taking over from Steve Whitmire in 2017. University President Darryll J. Pines expressed his delight at welcoming Kermit to campus, highlighting the optimism and insight the Muppet character brings to this significant moment for graduates and their families.
While Kermit’s selection as a commencement speaker may come as a surprise to some, this won’t be his first time addressing a graduating class. In 1996, he delivered a commencement speech at the Southampton College of Long Island University and was even granted an honorary doctorate of amphibious letters degree for his efforts in raising environmental awareness.
The announcement of Kermit the Frog as the commencement speaker has undoubtedly brought a unique and memorable twist to the University of Maryland’s graduation ceremony. As the campus gears up to host the world-famous amphibian, students and attendees can look forward to a speech filled with encouragement, wisdom, and perhaps a sprinkle of Muppet magic.
In a year where traditional ceremonies have been reimagined and adapted, the choice to have Kermit the Frog deliver the commencement speech serves as a reminder of the power of creativity, imagination, and the enduring legacy of Jim Henson’s creations. With Kermit set to take the stage, the Class of 2025 can anticipate a graduation ceremony unlike any other, blending inspiration with a touch of Muppet charm.