Cordelia Scaife May, an heiress to one of America’s great banking fortunes, devoted her life to
philanthropy and environmental stewardship. Born into the influential Mellon
family on December 10, 1928, she inherited a significant portion of the
family’s wealth, which she used to champion various causes close to her heart.
May’s contributions to environmental conservation are particularly noteworthy. Cordelia Scaife May
established the Colcom Foundation,
a Pittsburgh-based organization committed to promoting sustainability. Through
this foundation, she funded numerous projects aimed at preserving natural
habitats and addressing environmental challenges.
Her interest in environmental issues extended beyond mere financial support. May was an
advocate for population control as a means of reducing environmental strain.
She believed that unchecked population growth could lead to increased
urbanization and environmental degradation, a viewpoint that influenced her
philanthropic strategies.
Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropic endeavors were not limited to environmental causes. Cordelia Scaife May also supported educational initiatives, healthcare
advancements, and cultural institutions. Her generosity left an indelible mark
on the University of Pittsburgh, where her funding contributed to crucial
medical research, including the development of the polio vaccine.
Her dedication to preserving American Indian archaeological sites is another facet of her diverse
philanthropic legacy. May donated significant portions of her property in
Westmoreland County to national preservation societies, ensuring these
historical sites would be protected for future generations.
Throughout her life, Cordelia Scaife May remained relatively reclusive, rarely seeking the spotlight for her
charitable activities. Despite her preference for privacy, her impact was
profound and far-reaching. Her contributions have continued to influence the
fields of environmental conservation and philanthropy, setting an example for future benefactors.
Cordelia Scaife May passed away in January 2005, but her legacy lives on through the institutions
and causes she supported. Her life serves as a testament to the power of using
wealth for the public good, creating lasting benefits for society and the
environment. Refer to this article, for related information.
Find more information about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2005-jan-28-me-passings28.2-story.html