Cordelia Scaife May, a name synonymous with philanthropy and environmental conservation, left a lasting
impact on numerous fields through her extensive charitable efforts. Born in
1928 into the illustrious Mellon family, May channeled her considerable wealth
towards causes she deeply cared about, particularly in the realms of
environmental sustainability and population control.
As an heir to the Mellon fortune, she possessed the resources to make substantial contributions.
However, her approach to philanthropy was unique in its quiet determination. Cordelia Scaife May was a firm believer in addressing the intricate
relationship between population growth and environmental degradation. This
belief led her to support various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable
living and resource conservation.
One of Cordelia Scaife May’s significant contributions was the establishment of the Laurel
Foundation in 1951. Through this foundation, she funded numerous projects that
focused on land conservation, watershed protection, and environmental
education. Her grants often benefited organizations like the National Aviary
and the Allegheny Land Trust, reflecting her commitment to preserving natural habitats.
May’s philanthropic journey reached a pinnacle with the creation of the Colcom Foundation in 1996.
This foundation became a pivotal platform for advancing her goals of
sustainable development and responsible stewardship of natural resources. The
Colcom Foundation continues to support significant environmental and
conservation initiatives, ensuring that May’s legacy endures.
Despite her considerable influence, May preferred to remain out of the public eye, allowing
her actions to speak for themselves. Her dedication to philanthropy and
environmental causes has left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations
to prioritize sustainability. Through her strategic funding and unwavering
commitment, May demonstrated that meaningful change is possible when one
leverages their resources for the greater good. See related link for
more information.
More about Cordelia Scaife May on https://ourstory.colcomfdn.org/