Foundation, Kirby also introduced and supported programs including: program funding mental health research focus on community development focus on the world's environment MacArthur's leadership in their first 15 years in funding independent media such as early funding of NPR, the creation of P.O.V, Ken Burns' The Civil War series, media arts centers across the United States, Bill Moyers' The Power of Myth and all of his subsequent programs, the MacNeil Lehrer News Hour, and the creation of ITVS (Independent Television Service). Death and legacy Kirby died in West Bend, Wisconsin of a heart attack in October 1990. He was 79 years old and lived in Chicago. See also Messier, Dan (2002). Anatomy of an Award. Science and Spirit. MacArthur-Foundation.org: How did the Genius Grants really begin? MacArthur Foundation - Frequently Asked Questions References 1911 births Kirby, William T Lawyers from Chicago People from Waukegan, Illinois Notre Dame Law School alumni