Takeaways From Graduation Speeches by Trump, Taraji P. Henson and Others

The New York Times studied videos of addresses posted online, including those by President Trump, Kermit the Frog and a slew of celebrity speakers. Here is a look at key themes that emerged.

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China’s Economic Slowdown Fuels Social Media Anger at Elites

A Harvard graduate, a doctor and an actress have been at the center of social media storms over perceived privilege. Some see economic anxiety behind it.

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Trump Gives Commencement Address at West Point, Stressing a New Era

The president said the graduating cadets would enter a service no longer subject to “absurd ideological experiments” or “nation-building crusades.”

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‘Leap Together’: Kermit the Frog Gives a Graduation Speech

The cheery muppet donned a tiny cap and gown to inspire students at the University of Maryland. “Life is like a movie. Write your own ending,” he said.

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In Alabama Commencement Speech, Trump Mixes In the Political

Between pieces of advice like “don’t try to be someone else,” the president attacked political foes and discussed everything from egg prices to transgender rights, often to cheers from the crowd.

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Who’s Speaking at College Graduations Across the U.S.?

As colleges face increased scrutiny from the federal government, they are taking diverging approaches in choosing commencement keynotes.

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Maryland’s Kermit the Frog Commencement Choice Gets Mixed Reaction From Students

The University of Maryland says it is honoring Jim Henson, an alumnus, with its choice of commencement speaker. Some students think it is avoiding “real issues.”

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Kermit the Frog Will Deliver Commencement Speech at U. of Maryland

The world’s most famous green frog will most likely give some encouraging words to the class of 2025.

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U.C. Berkeley’s Leader, a Free Speech Champion, Has Advice for Today’s Students: Tone It Down

“Just because you have the right to say something doesn’t mean it’s right to say,” said Carol Christ, who is retiring as chancellor at the end of this month.

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