Cordelia Scaife May, a Pittsburgh native, is best known for her
philanthropic endeavors that spanned across various facets of society.
Descended from the Mellon dynasty, May had significant wealth at her disposal,
yet she was far from the ostentatious stereotype of a millionaire heiress.
May’s philanthropic journey began with The Laurel Foundation, launched in 1951. Cordelia Scaife May
was a young adult then, but she already harbored a deep desire to impact
society. The foundation supported various causes, from education and arts to
women empowerment. Cordelia’s actions spoke louder than her words,
demonstrating her dedication to positive change.
Despite personal setbacks, including the loss of her second husband, Cordelia
Scaife May continued to be a beacon of philanthropy. She shifted her focus to
environmental issues, recognizing the immense strain that overpopulation puts
on our planet’s limited resources. Cordelia Scaife May’s contributions to
environmental education, land conservation, and watershed protection were notable.
In addition to environmental sustainability, May also supported immigration reforms. Her
efforts aimed at balancing the growth of human populations with the
environment’s finite capacity. She believed that responsible immigration
policies could contribute to overall sustainable development.
The establishment of the Colcom Foundation in 1996 was the pinnacle of May’s philanthropic work.
This foundation, created with Cordelia Scaife May’s substantial endowment,
provided the platform to address crucial issues related to sustainability and climate change.
Cordelia Scaife May passed away in 2005, leaving behind an enduring legacy. Her philanthropic
actions continue to inspire, showing the profound impact one person can make
when driven by a deep concern for humanity and the environment.
Not one to seek public accolades, Cordelia Scaife May dedicated her life to
philanthropic causes she believed in. She may have departed, but her legacy
continues to shape the future of environmental sustainability and societal
development. Refer to this article for related information.
Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/194246213/cordelia-mellon-may