She put a silver lining on Mid Sweden University – now Kerstin is putting the tools on the shelf

The last doctor's ring is polished, carefully packed and will soon be sent to its recipient. At the age of 87, silversmith Kerstin Öhlin Lejonklou has decided to retire.

"It feels just right. I've had a creative job that has given me a lot, in the artistic professions it's easy to continue working.

She is standing in the small workshop that is located behind the old tourist office in the middle of Östersund. Extremely central, yet remote and very picturesque. She has worked here since 1982. Now, in just a few weeks, it will be handed over to jewellery artist Sanna Svedestedt.

"Sanna will take over the production of graduation and doctoral rings, so nothing will change for Mid Sweden University. Except that I disappear then, of course," says Kerstin.

A ring for every river

Mid Sweden University's history is in many ways interwoven with Kerstin's professional life. Already 30 years ago, in 1995, she was commissioned by the then president of Mid Sweden University to create a graduation ring. She did, and the design with three longitudinal bands representing the rivers Ljungan, Indalsälven and Ångermanälven, remains to this day.

"The first year I think I made 100 rings. I remember that we invited the president of the union here and he got to see how it was done when we created the ring.

"Then it decreased a little as the price of gold increased, but every year we have received orders for the ring in gold or silver from students who want it as a memento. It can also be parents or grandparents who order the ring as a gift for the person who goes out," says Kerstin.

Science's wedding ring

A few years later, she was commissioned to design the doctoral and honorary doctorate ring. The ring symbolizes marriage to science and, in addition to Mid Sweden University's logo, is adorned with a laurel wreath.

In 2001, she made the first honorary doctorate ring and it went to the former prime minister and Härnösand son Thorbjörn Fälldin.

She will never forget that ring.

"Thorbjörn Fälldin had the biggest fingers I've ever seen. They were so large that our measuring instruments were not enough.

"But I was invited to the ceremony and got to meet Thorbjörn Fälldin and it was really nice.

One of the most honorable assignments

Perhaps the most honorable assignment Kerstin has had for Mid Sweden University is the creation of the Vice-Chancellor's Chain. The Vice-Chancellor's Chain is designed by silversmith Nils Nisbel and made in collaboration with Kerstin and her co-worker, goldsmith Lena Olofsson. The chain consists of several interconnected gold plates and is a gift from county administrative boards, regions and municipalities in Jämtland and Västernorrland counties.

"Probably a million. That's why I don't think you should wear it on the dance floor, and I've called the principal and told them that.

At 87 years old, she believes she has the right to say what she thinks.   

A last wish

Perhaps the circle between Kerstin and Mid Sweden University will be closed during this autumn's Academic Ceremony. Mid Sweden University celebrates 20 years as a university with an extra silver lining and specially invited guests, including Kerstin. But she is doubtful whether she can cope. However, there is one thing that can make her go there.

"I have a pretty solid CV with many awards and scholarships and even a medal from the king. But do you know what I'm missing? An honorary doctorate ring.

She pauses. Smiles a little, then she adds:

"But on the other hand, I could make one myself.