As graduation caps fly across the United States, an array of celebrity commencement speeches have made 2025 a memorable year for graduates. From inspiring tales to candid life lessons, these speeches have left lasting imprints on students stepping into their futures. According to The Tab, these public figures not only entertained but also imparted wisdom that resonates beyond the ceremony.
Jennifer Coolidge: Embrace Absurd Possibilities
At Emerson College in Massachusetts, Jennifer Coolidge, with her trademark humor and insight, urged graduates to “just friggin’ go for it.” Her speech centered on pursuing dreams with fervor, even when those dreams might seem outlandish. Her message was clear: believe in the possibilities, no matter how absurd they may appear, and let that belief propel you forward.
Usher: Passion Overcomes All
Usher, at Emory University in Georgia, brought a heartfelt story of perseverance, revealing his struggles with academic systems that seldom recognized passion. Speaking from his heart, he encouraged students to change the status quo and pursue their passions fearlessly, emphasizing that passion, not obstacles, is what shapes success.
Simone Biles: Be the Greatest You
Simone Biles, imparting wisdom at Washington University in St. Louis, highlighted the importance of personal excellence over external accolades. Her advice was simple yet profound: strive to be the greatest version of yourself, inspired by the values instilled by her own mother. Biles reassured graduates that their potential is limitless.
Jane Fonda: Hope is a Muscle
Speaking at USC’s Annenberg School, Jane Fonda passionately addressed pressing issues like climate change, stating that challenging times can be met with achievable solutions. Her poignant words, “hope is a muscle,” served as a powerful reminder that hope is cultivated through action and engagement.
Steve Carell: Dance, Connect, Be Kind
Steve Carell added a dash of comedy at Northwestern University, advising students to maintain kindness and keep connections strong. His quirky advice to avoid using AI for personal tasks was balanced with heartfelt recommendations to embrace moments of joy, like dancing when life gets hard.
Kermit the Frog: Finding Your People
At the University of Maryland, Kermit the Frog captivated audiences with his whimsical insights on community and connection. Celebrating creativity and collaboration, Kermit’s speech paid homage to his beloved creator, Jim Henson, reminding everyone that meaningful connections are integral to a fulfilling journey.
These speeches, filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and profound truths, have not only entertained audiences but also inspired graduates to think beyond the conventional, to embrace the future with optimism and individuality. Each celebrity, in their unique way, delivered lessons that are sure to linger long after the applause has faded.