At the time of his death, Kirby was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wheeling Jesuit University (WJU). He served on the WJU board for 18 years, spending the last 7 years of his board membership as chairman. A staunch Methodist, Kirby helped create an ecumenical governing board at the University, bringing together men and women of diverse races, faiths, and ethnic origin. In 1999, Kirby was the recipient of the WJU Ignatian Medal. This medal is considered the highest honor bestowed by the University, given to men and women whose works display faith in God, service to neighbors, and leadership in the community. He was ... awarded the Clifford Lewis S.J. award by the University Alumni Association, granted to individuals exhibiting extraordinary service, contribution, and dedication to the University.