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.

Kermit the Frog was announced at the University of Maryland's 2025 commencement speaker in March; Speaking with PEOPLE about the special moment, the Muppets favorite says he was e

As the University of Maryland’s graduating class prepares to leap into the next stage of life, Kermit the Frog left the students with a message of connection and love.

The frog’s speech focused on three points, finding your people, taking the leap, making connections. “I see you, I see you out there.

Appreciate the people around you, Kermit the Frog urged University of Maryland graduates Thursday, because they are what makes life worth living. “Seriously, go ahead, look around,” he told the crowd.

Kermit the Frog delivered a commencement address at the University of Maryland in College Park on May 22, 2025.

Erin Mayovsky previews Good Day Pop! Kermit the Frog delivered his first commencement address at the University of Maryland, and Tom Hanks will star in an off-Broadway play he co-wrote.