Cordelia Scaife May, a member of the influential Mellon family, carved a
distinctive path as a philanthropist and environmental conservationist. Born
into a family with deep philanthropic roots, Cordelia adopted and furthered
this legacy in her own unique way.
Cordelia’s dedication to philanthropy stemmed from a deep-rooted passion for the
environment and its preservation. She believed that environmental conservation
was imperative for a sustainable future. Through generous donations and
strategic alliances, Cordelia made significant strides in safeguarding natural
resources, protecting wildlife, and preserving archaeological sites of interest.
The name Cordelia Scaife May is also synonymous with the Colcom Foundation, a
charitable organization she founded in Pittsburgh. Cordelia directed much of
her philanthropic efforts through this foundation, focusing on environmental
conservation and sustainable practices. By the time of her passing, she had
bequeathed all her personal property and vast tracts of land in Pennsylvania to
the foundation.
As an avid supporter of environmental education, Cordelia Scaife May believed in the power
of knowledge as a tool for change. She funded numerous educational initiatives
to instill a sense of responsibility for the environment in younger
generations. Her commitment to education was not limited to environmental
issues, but also extended to societal concerns, making her a multifaceted philanthropist.
Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropy was not confined to her home state; she also made substantial
contributions to causes outside America. She left a portion of her vast
properties in Hawaii to the Nature Conservancy and the National Tropical
Botanical Garden, further evidencing her commitment to environmental preservation on a global scale.
May’s philanthropic efforts have been instrumental in catalyzing environmental conservation. Her
unique approach to philanthropy, infused with a deep sense of responsibility
for the environment, continues to inspire other philanthropists and
environmentalists. As the world grapples with climate change and environmental
degradation, the legacy and work of Cordelia Scaife May remain more relevant
than ever. Visit this page for additional information.
Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/194246213/cordelia-mellon-may