An important voice in Wisconsin broadcasting and world music for more than three decades, Dr. Jonathan Øverby has announced his retirement from Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR).
Since 1994, Dr. Øverby has served as the host and executive producer of WPR Music’s “The Road to Higher Ground with Jonathan Øverby,” guiding the program through several incarnations, from an engaging talk show to a live music and variety performance program, and ultimately to its current weekly world music format.
Dr. Øverby was inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2023. In 2022, he was inducted into Folk Alliance International’s Folk DJ Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Kansas City, according to a press release from PBS Wisconsin, and he was named a distinguished broadcaster at the University of Wisconsin-Extension in 2013. He was honored with the University of Wisconsin Colleges and Extension “Wisconsin Idea Award” in 2016 for his “outstanding contributions to service and education to society, and the quality of life in Wisconsin, the nation and the world.”
“As Dr. Øverby retires, we celebrate his dedication to WPR listeners and his decades of service to the state of Wisconsin,” WPR Director Sarah Ashworth said in a statement. “‘The Road to Higher Ground’ has brought music appreciation, education and a better understanding of our world to communities in Wisconsin and beyond. My family listens on Saturday nights in our kitchen, and I’m deeply appreciative of how Dr. Øverby brings people all over the world together and provides a way to connect through music. We have all learned so much about this wide, diverse and engaging expanse of music and the performers and creators who have inspired generations.”
Outside of WPR, Dr. Øverby serves as host and executive producer of the annual State of Wisconsin Tribute and Ceremony Honoring the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the oldest state celebration of Dr. King in the nation. Following his retirement from Wisconsin Public Radio, Dr. Øverby will continue leading this event, while expanding his work as an international lecturer, conductor, ethnomusicologist and cultural ambassador.
