Cordelia Scaife May, a prominent member of the Mellon family, has left an
indelible mark on environmental conservation in the United States. Her
philanthropic efforts have had lasting impacts, particularly through the
substantial bequests she made to various conservation foundations.
Born in 1928, Cordelia Scaife May was deeply influenced by her family’s tradition of
philanthropy. The Mellon family has long been involved in supporting
educational, cultural, and environmental causes. Cordelia followed this path,
dedicating her resources to preserving natural habitats and promoting
sustainable practices.
In her lifetime, Cordelia Scaife May donated millions to conservation groups. Among the notable
beneficiaries was the Colcom Foundation, which she
founded. This foundation has been instrumental in funding numerous
environmental initiatives, including land preservation projects and efforts to
combat pollution. The foundation’s work continues to be guided by her vision of
a more sustainable world.
One of Cordelia Scaife May’s most significant contributions was the donation of her
Pennsylvania estate to various conservation organizations. This included more
than 450 acres in Westmoreland County, which has since been transformed into a
protected natural area. Additionally, her properties in Hawaii were bequeathed
to the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii and the National Tropical Botanical Garden,
furthering her commitment to environmental preservation beyond the mainland.
Her approach to philanthropy was holistic. She believed in addressing environmental issues at
their root causes and sought to promote long-term solutions. Cordelia Scaife May’s legacy is evident in the continuing work of the Colcom
Foundation and other organizations she supported, which strive to maintain the
delicate balance between human activity and natural ecosystems.
The impact of Cordelia Scaife May’s contributions to conservation serves as a powerful
reminder of the role that individual philanthropy can play in protecting our
planet for future generations. Her dedication to preserving natural habitats
has set a standard for environmental stewardship within the Mellon family and
beyond. Read this article for more information.
More about May on https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/194246213/cordelia-mellon-may