AF, The Academic Society (Akademiska Föreningen), is launching a new initiative to engage alumni, led by well-known Lund figure Olof Jarlman. By offering a broader range of events, the aim is to reach more people who may not have previously known about the opportunity to become a special member (särskild medlem).
Most people in Lund are likely aware that the city’s DNA is deeply rooted in Akademiska Föreningen’s unique traditions of culture and events, from student performances and carnivals to formal dinners, student evenings and academic celebrations, all centered around education, humor and community.
With support from major foundations such as Crafoord, LMK and Sparbanksstiftelsen Finn, AF continues to be a central force in Lund’s academic and cultural life. But there’s another important group, AF’s special members!
Time to broaden the offer for special members
Many are unaware that Akademiska Föreningen offers a special membership for those who have completed their studies or otherwise have close ties to the University. The membership requires no active involvement but comes with several great benefits – for an annual fee of 265 SEK:
Benefits:
• Discount on stage events at AF-borgen and other social academic activities, often with the option to pre-book. Some events include an “Eftersits” (a light meal after the activity) available at a ticket price.
• Invitations to AF’s traditional festivities.
• Opportunity to book the Student House in Skanör for parties or summer stays.
• Possibility to get involved in AF’s activities.
Funny hats and folding chairs
The most popular events for special members have long been the spring dinner and autumn mingle before Siste April and Siste November, often followed by a Lundaspex. Now, Olof Jarlman, who leads the initiative, wants to expand the offerings and attract new members!
“We want to offer something for everyone,” says Jarlman. In collaboration with AF’s committees and recognised associations, a wide range of events are being arranged. One example from last autumn was the humorous “folding chair walk” with the Uarda Academy, where participants equipped with folding chairs and suitable headwear (!) were guided through Lund’s monuments and memorials. The walk included stories, student performances and sing-alongs, and ended with lunch at Tegnérs in AF-borgen. Another activity was the show Master Will, a spex (Lund-style performance) about the battle between comedy and drama, featuring participants from the Uarda Academy, Lundaspexarna and Boelspexarna.
There may also be annual art salons in collaboration with the Art Committee and Pictura, or carnival memories showcasing highlights from 20th-century Lund carnivals.
Still to come this autumn
The next activity is a lecture (in Swedish) on 12 November about Wiwen Nilsson – the Lund silversmith and designer known for his clean modernism and close ties to the city’s academic student life. (See details below if you wish to attend.) And on 29 November, special members will gather to celebrate the last day of November (Siste November), a cherished highlight in Lund’s student life. This year’s celebration invites guests to a festive mingle followed by a classic Lundaspex – an evening filled with laughter, culture and community.
Countdown to the 200th anniversary
In four years, Akademiska Föreningen will celebrate its 200th anniversary. Plans are still being developed, and no details are finalised, but expectations are high that the celebration will be something truly special – and of course, alumni will be included.
“Curiosity and engagement enrich both the individual and the academic community,” says Olof Jarlman. As a special member (särskild medlem), you can take part in this in your own way – attend events, discover new connections between students, academia and businesses in Lund or simply join activities that interest you. Everything is voluntary, but all opportunities are open.
Jarlman emphasizes that the goal is to create a vibrant community where alumni can continue to feel at home in Lund’s student life.
12 November – Wiwen Nilsson and the student world
Lecture (in Swedish) and discussion with Wiwen expert Fredrik Zimmerdahl and former AF Chair Olof Jarlman.
Meal afterwards: Ground beef patties with sides (drinks not included).
Time & Place: 19:00–21:30, Weibull Hall, AF-borgen
Price: 195 SEK for AF members
Registration: By 1 November to olof@jarlman.se – include name, phone/email and number of seats.
29 November – Last of November celebration
Special members are invited to a festive mingle followed by a classic Lundaspex. Invitation, registration details and cost will be sent shortly via email to AF’s special members.
How to Become a Member
How to Become a Member
Become a special member
More Information
For more details and contact information, please visit Särskild medlem — AF (in Swedish).