India, May 24 -- Kermit the Frog delivered an inspiring commencement speech at the University of Maryland on Thursday. The beloved green Muppet urged the graduating Class of 2025 to "stay connected to your dreams." The last time he did so was at Southampton College in 1996.

The university declared Kermit the Frog as this year's commencement speaker in March. The decision was a nod to the Muppets creator Jim Henson, who graduated from Maryland in 1960, per Associated Press. The College Park campus is home to the famous bronze statue of Henson and Kermit sitting on a bench.

"As you prepare to take this big leap into real life, here's a little advice - if you're willing to listen to a frog," the amphibian told the graduating students. "Rat...