Internet Reacts: Kermit The Frog As UMD's 2025 Commencement Speaker

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

4.7

Share

The Initial Online Shock and Awe

The announcement of Kermit the Frog as UMD's commencement speaker was met with immediate and widespread astonishment. Social media platforms lit up with a flurry of reactions, ranging from disbelief to outright hilarity. The news spread like wildfire, transforming Kermit into an unlikely internet sensation.

• Humorous Tweets: Examples included tweets like, "UMD really said 'Hi-ho, Kermit-go!' to traditional commencement speakers," and "My graduation cap is already decorated with lily pads."
• Trending Hashtags: #KermitAtUMD, #UMDCommencement, #KermitGraduation, and #UnexpectedSpeaker quickly became top trends, showcasing the virality of the announcement.
• Rapid Spread: The news wasn't confined to Twitter; Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok were flooded with memes, videos, and discussions, underscoring the widespread impact of this announcement. The story even made its way onto major news outlets, highlighting its newsworthiness.

Analyzing the Humor and Memes

The comedic genius of the announcement lies in the unexpected juxtaposition of a beloved Muppet and the formality of a prestigious university commencement. The internet responded in kind, creating a wave of memes reflecting this incongruity.

• Meme Formats: The announcement inspired a wide array of meme formats, including Drakeposting (Kermit choosing between a traditional speaker and a Muppet), Distracted Boyfriend (students distracted from studying by the news), and various other creative interpretations.
• Common Themes: Many memes focused on Kermit's inherent wisdom and the unexpected, yet potentially insightful, graduation advice he might offer. The humor stemmed from the absurdity of the situation while acknowledging Kermit's surprising relatability.
• Popular Memes: One particularly popular meme showed Kermit with the caption, "Me trying to explain to my parents why I chose UMD after seeing their commencement speaker." This highlights the universal appeal of the announcement and its ability to resonate with a broad audience.

Positive Reactions and Underlying Messages

While the initial reaction was largely humorous, many also recognized the positive aspects of UMD's unconventional choice. The selection of Kermit carries a deeper symbolic meaning, offering potential for a memorable and inspiring ceremony.

• Kermit's Wisdom: Kermit is known for his insightful and relatable life lessons, often portrayed through his struggles and eventual triumphs. His message of perseverance resonates deeply with graduating students facing the challenges of the future.
• Relatability: Kermit's approachable nature and relatable struggles make him an ideal speaker for a graduating class. He embodies the idea that even in facing difficult choices, one can find success and happiness.
• Unique Commencement Speech: The potential for a truly memorable and inspiring commencement address is immense. Kermit's unique perspective could deliver a message unlike any other, setting a precedent for future unconventional speaker selections.

Potential for Increased UMD Visibility and Engagement

UMD's bold choice has undeniably boosted its visibility and engagement across various platforms. This unconventional approach to commencement speakers has resulted in significant positive PR.

• Brand Awareness: The announcement generated widespread media coverage, significantly increasing brand awareness for the University of Maryland on a national and even international scale.
• Positive Media Coverage: Major news outlets picked up the story, further amplifying UMD's reach and strengthening its public image as a forward-thinking and engaging institution.
• Attracting New Students: The positive attention surrounding this event could attract a new generation of students drawn to UMD's innovative and playful approach to its traditions.

Kermit's Commencement and the Internet's Lasting Impression

The internet's reaction to Kermit the Frog as UMD's 2025 commencement speaker is a testament to the power of unexpected events and the enduring influence of social media. The initial shock, the wave of humorous memes, the positive interpretations, and the potential benefits for UMD all highlight the significance of this unconventional choice. This event showcases how a seemingly simple announcement can generate widespread engagement and leave a lasting impression, shaping the perception of the event for years to come.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions on "Internet Reacts: Kermit the Frog as UMD's 2025 Commencement Speaker" using #KermitAtUMD, #UMDCommencement, and other relevant hashtags. Share your own creative memes or commentary, and let's discuss the impact of unexpected commencement speakers and their influence on university culture! Let the meme-making begin!