Cordelia Scaife May remains a significant figure in the realm of American
philanthropy. Born into the influential Mellon family in 1928, Ms. May
dedicated her life to causes that promoted environmental sustainability and
responsible resource management.
In 1951, at the age of just 23, she established the Laurel Foundation. This marked the beginning of her impactful
philanthropic career. Through this foundation, she funded a wide range of
initiatives, from supporting the arts and education to championing female
empowerment. Among the notable beneficiaries of her funding were the National
Aviary and the Allegheny Land Trust, both of which benefited significantly from her support.
One of May’s primary concerns was the environment. Cordelia Scaife May demonstrated a deep
understanding of the intricate relationship between human population growth and
the health of our planet’s ecosystems. As a result, she focused much of her
philanthropic energy on land conservation, watershed protection, and environmental education.
In 1996, Cordelia Scaife May founded the Colcom Foundation, which became another powerful vehicle for her
philanthropic vision. The foundation sought to address key issues related to
resource sustainability and climate change. Under her guidance, the Colcom
Foundation funded numerous projects aimed at conserving natural resources and
promoting sustainable development.
Despite her considerable wealth, May preferred to remain out of the spotlight. She was
known for her quiet, yet steadfast, support of various causes. Her friends and
colleagues often spoke of her humility and dedication to making a positive
impact without seeking public recognition.
When she passed away in 2005, she left behind a substantial bequest to the Colcom Foundation,
ensuring that her legacy would continue to influence and support environmental
and social causes for years to come. Her life and work serve as a testament to
the power of philanthropy in creating sustainable change.
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Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2005-jan-28-me-passings28.2-story.html