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

Mei Lin

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

4.0

Share

The Initial Online Response: A Wave of Memes and Merriment

The internet's initial reaction to the announcement was, unsurprisingly, a deluge of memes and jokes. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram exploded with humorous posts, many leveraging the inherent comedic potential of the situation. The unexpectedness of a Muppet delivering a commencement address provided fertile ground for creative expression.

• Viral Tweets: Many tweets featured images of Kermit alongside graduation caps, diplomas, and witty captions like "Me trying to apply Kermit's wisdom to my post-grad job search." Others used the classic "Drakeposting" meme format, contrasting the excitement of a Kermit commencement with the disappointment of a more traditional speaker.
• Meme Formats: The "Woman Yelling at a Cat" meme was also popular, depicting the contrast between the older generation's confusion and the younger generation's enthusiastic embrace of the news. Other memes played on Kermit's famous catchphrases, adapting them to the context of graduation and the anxieties of entering the workforce.
• Humor from the Unexpected: The humor largely stemmed from the sheer unexpectedness of the choice. The juxtaposition of a beloved children's character with the formality of a university commencement ceremony created a humorous disconnect that resonated with many. This unexpectedness fueled the viral spread of these memes and jokes, making "Kermit at UMD" a trending topic.

Analyzing the University's Bold Decision: Strategic Marketing or a PR Stunt?

UMD's decision to invite Kermit the Frog as their commencement speaker is certainly bold. Several interpretations are possible. Was it a strategic marketing move to attract younger audiences and generate buzz, or a calculated PR stunt?

• Potential Benefits: A non-traditional speaker like Kermit offers several advantages. It guarantees increased media coverage and significant social media engagement, instantly boosting the university's visibility. The novelty of the choice enhances UMD's brand image, portraying it as innovative and forward-thinking.
• Increased Engagement: The viral nature of the announcement alone demonstrates the success of this approach. The sheer number of memes and online discussions generated unparalleled publicity for the university.
• Brand Image Enhancement: UMD positions itself as a modern and approachable institution, appealing to a younger demographic.
• Potential Drawbacks: However, there are potential risks. Some may criticize the choice as frivolous or unprofessional. The success hinges on Kermit delivering a speech that aligns with the solemnity of the occasion while retaining its unique charm.

Beyond the Jokes: Genuine Excitement and Kermit's Inspirational Appeal

While the memes were abundant, many online reactions expressed genuine excitement about Kermit's commencement address. Kermit, despite being a fictional frog, embodies several inspirational qualities relatable to graduating students.

• Positive Online Comments: Many comments praised the choice, highlighting Kermit's enduring appeal and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages. Comments like "Kermit's journey perfectly encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of higher education" were common.
• Kermit's Inspirational Traits: Kermit's perseverance in the face of adversity, his ability to navigate difficult situations with humor and grace, and his emphasis on teamwork and collaboration all resonate deeply with graduating students facing the challenges of the real world.
• Relatable Struggles: Kermit's struggles with self-doubt and his eventual success provide a powerful message of hope and resilience, making him an unexpectedly apt commencement speaker.

The Impact on the Class of 2025: A Memorable Commencement Ceremony?

The impact of Kermit's presence on the Class of 2025 is potentially significant. This unconventional choice is almost guaranteed to create a memorable commencement ceremony.

• Student Reactions: While widespread student reactions are yet to be fully documented, initial responses on social media indicate a largely positive reception, with many expressing excitement and anticipation.
• Commencement Speech Tone: The speech's tone is crucial. It must balance humor and inspiration, acknowledging the lightheartedness of the situation while delivering a meaningful message about the future.
• Long-Term Effects: The lasting impact on UMD's brand and alumni relations remains to be seen, but the sheer volume of online engagement suggests a long-term positive association with the "Kermit Commencement."

The Enduring Legacy of Kermit at UMD's Commencement

The online response to Kermit the Frog's appointment as UMD's 2025 commencement speaker is a fascinating blend of humorous memes and genuine excitement. This unconventional choice has undoubtedly boosted UMD's visibility and generated significant positive engagement. Its long-term impact on the university's image and the graduating class remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: it's a commencement ceremony that will be talked about for years to come.

Join the conversation! Share your thoughts on the "Internet Reacts: Kermit the Frog as UMD's 2025 Commencement Speaker" using #KermitAtUMD #UMDCommencement. Let us know what you think Kermit's speech will be like!