COLLEGE PARK, Md. (WFLA) — Students graduating from the University of Maryland had an unusual commencement speaker: the beloved green character, Kermit the Frog.

This wasn’t Kermit’s first appearance at the university, as Muppets creator Jim Henson, who graduated with a degree in home economics in 1969, is celebrated on campus with a statue of him and Kermit.

Adorned in doctoral attire, Kermit delivered wise advice to the graduates, urging them to support and collaborate with one another instead of competing.

 “Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want, consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together,” the frog said.

Graduates in the audience could be seen listening intently, some holding signs and Kermit stuffed animals.

It’s not easy to graduate into a world of political turmoil, but hopefully, the encouraging words from the friendly muppet helped these grads see the future is bright.

“Because life’s like a movie. Write your own ending. Keep believing, keep pretending. You’ve all done just what you set out to do,” Kermit told the crowd.