10 questions with…Lisa McGinty
1. Tell me about your job.
I work for the Barnes Jewish Hospital Foundation as the major gifts officer. I work with generous donors to raise money for research, patient care, equipment and special projects at the hospital. The best part is finding creative ways to help donors accomplish their philanthropic dreams, while also meeting the hospital’s greatest needs.
2. Where are you from?
I grew up in St. Louis and went to St. Joe’s [St. Joseph’s Academy]. I left to go to Notre Dame for college, and met my husband there.
3. Why did you come back?
I had a great opportunity to come back for grad school at SLU. I love the people in St. Louis, the neighborhoods here. We have so many interesting pockets, so many free things, a world-class hospital. It’s a great place to start a family.
4. How did you get involved with GenNext?
Katy Lachky (left, pictured with Lisa, right), who’s on the steering committee, is my cousin and close friend. She’s involved with so many organizations in St. Louis. She encouraged me to join her at a few of the service projects and social events for GenNext. It’s a great way to get involved. It’s the kind of commitment that’s perfect when you’re busy.
5. You’re on a grant allocation panel for United Way. Tell me about that experience.
I’m always out raising money for my job, so it’s great to get to see the other side. I’m on a panel now that is allocating start-up funding for new programs targeting women and young girls. We review all the grants, discuss every detail and then select a few projects to fund. It’s great to work with such an interesting group of committee members. Being on the panel really makes you feel more connected to the community and see what the needs are, then help address those needs. Of course, we always wish we had more to give.
6. What’s a favorite GenNext memory or two?
We just volunteered at the St. Louis Area Foodbank. They have an amazing new building, and so many volunteers came out to help. I’ve also worked a few booths at social events, which was fun. And, I loved the Nordstrom lunch, because you see how a local company is committing to the community, but also how the CEO is personally committed.
7. Why do you think philanthropy and volunteerism are so important for young professionals?
At some point, everyone asks, “What am I going to do to make my mark, to make a difference?” Young professionals may be doing well in their careers, but they want something else, too. I have to applaud the United Way for having GenNext to tap into this very hopeful and idealistic generation. We’re the future CEOs and leaders of companies. It’s important to tap into that youthful idealism now. GenNext is obviously fulfilling a need. For me personally, a commitment to philanthropy and volunteerism is part of my decision on how to live my life. Although I work for a large nonprofit, but I don’t get to do direct service in my job.
8. Fun question time! What’s your favorite pizza?
Oh, the McGinty’s family pizza made on Trader Joe’s crust. We have it every week, seriously. It’s kind of changed our life.
9. What’s your favorite restaurant in St. Louis?
My husband and I love Chimichanga’s in South City. It’s a perfect hole-in-the-wall Mexican place, with its greasy food and oversized margaritas.
10. Cardinals, Rams or Blues?
Cardinals, I guess. But really, I’m a huge Notre Dame football fan. My husband is from northern California, so he has me rooting for San Francisco teams now — the Giants and 49ers.