The American Foundations Oral History Project consists of a series of interviews with prominent American philanthropists, each of whom relates their background, the development of their values, and their philosophies of philanthropy. The purpose and state of American philanthropy, including those family foundations and corporate foundations, form a central topic, as do the recent trend of increasing diversity and opinions on grant evaluation and philanthropic assessment. In addition, many interviewees comment on the role of government in philanthropy and the system of ethics at play in American philanthropy.
William McGinly, chief executive officer and president of the Association for Health Philanthropy, discusses his background, his family, the development of his values, and his entrance into the field of philanthropy. McGinly emphasizes the profound personal importance of education and health care, as well as its importance to the organization which he leads. He discusses some characteristics and experiences that he believes make a good philanthropist. In addition, McGinly comments on the Give to Life Program, philanthropic ethics, diversity in philanthropy, and possible effects of the first Persian Gulf War on American philanthropy.