Alum of the Year 2025: Johnnie Lindgren
2025-09-08Johnnie Lindgren, a teacher in physical education at Dallidenskolan in Kil, is Alum of the Year 2025 at Karlstad University. His teaching is based on an innovative approach and new ways of thinking, focusing on motivating his pupils to believe in their own abilities.
Johnnie Lindgren graduated as a teacher in Swedish and physical education in 2009 and feels honoured to receive the award as Alum of the Year.
– It’s incredibly exciting and honouring. Many driven and competent people have received the award before me, so I feel humbled to be part of such a group.
Award citation
The award citation reads: “The everyday is where it all happens. The Alum of the Year 2025 inspires his pupils through an innovative approach and new ways of thinking around physical education. By using the demands of everyday life as a starting point, he creates relevant and engaging lessons that challenge and motivate ALL pupils to believe in their own abilities. In addition, the Alum of the Year 2025 also runs projects that encourage reading, exercise and a more peaceful and quiet study environment, as well as inspiring and supporting colleagues and athletes throughout the country! Contributions that are important to society on so many levels.”
“A fantastic initiative”
– It’s a fantastic initiative by Karlstad University to celebrate former students and show the value of a good education. Being recognised for something I’m passionate about, that is, movement, commitment and health, makes it even more meaningful, says Johnnie Lindgren.
– I look back on my time as a student at Karlstad University as a wonderful time with both an inclusive student life and excellent education. The positive image I have is largely thanks to the knowledgeable and committed teachers I had, as well as my fantastic fellow students. I still keep in touch with several of them today and exchange thoughts and experiences to become the best I can at my job, just as we did when I was a student. For me, Karlstad and Karlstad University were the perfect choice! Knowledge and friends for life.
Award ceremony
Johnnie Lindgren will receive the award on Tuesday, 30 September. At the ceremony, he will also give a lecture, and a student activity will be organised in connection with this together with the university’s student associations.
The award dates back to 2006
Karlstad University has presented the Alum of the Year award since 2006. The Alum of the Year is a person who has studied at Karlstad University and who is a good role model for the university’s students. Students and staff at the university, members of the Alumni Network and friends of the university are invited to suggest suitable candidates, based on the following criteria:
- The Alum of the Year must have a bachelor’s degree and/or a master’s degree and/or a PhD from Karlstad University.
- He or she has demonstrated integrity in their chosen profession by daring to challenge established norms and explore the unknown within their field of work.
Read more about previous alumni of the year (in Swedish):

