A Philanthropic Journey: The Life and Legacy of Cordelia Scaife May
Cordelia Scaife May, an influential figure in American philanthropy,
dedicated her life to environmental conservation and charitable endeavors. Born
into the illustrious Mellon family on December 10, 1928, her legacy extends far
beyond the substantial fortune she inherited.
Cordelia Scaife May grew up amidst a backdrop of privilege, yet she was driven by a profound sense
of responsibility to effect meaningful change. Her family’s wealth, primarily
derived from banking, oil, and aluminum ventures, provided Cordelia with the means
to support causes that resonated deeply with her values.
Throughout her lifetime, Cordelia Scaife May contributed significantly to environmental preservation efforts. A
notable aspect of her philanthropic focus was her commitment to conserving
American Indian archaeological sites. She generously donated land in
Westmoreland County to national preservation societies, ensuring the protection
of these invaluable cultural resources.
In addition to her conservation work, Cordelia Scaife May’s influence extended to the realm of
charitable foundations. The Colcom Foundation, a Pittsburgh-based organization, stands as a
testament to her enduring legacy. Upon her passing, she bequeathed her personal
property and real estate holdings to this foundation, solidifying its role in
promoting environmental sustainability and education.
Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropy was not confined to Pennsylvania alone. Her estates in
Hawaii were entrusted to the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii and the National
Tropical Botanical Garden, further underscoring her commitment to global conservation efforts.
Remembered fondly by her brother, Richard Scaife, as a person with deep compassion for both
people and causes, Cordelia Scaife May’s impact continues to be felt today. Her
dedication to preserving natural and cultural heritage has inspired countless
others in the field, leaving a lasting mark on the philanthropic landscape.
Read this article for more information.
Learn more about May on https://dbpedia.org/page/Cordelia_Scaife_May
