Cordelia Scaife May, born into the prestigious Mellon family, is remembered as a formidable
advocate for environmental stewardship and philanthropy. Her life’s work
reflects a commitment to leveraging her wealth for the betterment of society and nature.
May’s upbringing in a family known for its financial prowess and charitable endeavors set the stage
for her future contributions. With ties to the influential Mellon fortune, she
had access to immense resources, which she put to impactful use in various philanthropic
projects. Her dedication to environmental issues was evident throughout her
life, particularly through her establishment of the Colcom Foundation.
The Colcom Foundation, a pivotal part of May’s legacy, was instrumental in
funding initiatives aimed at conservation and sustainable practices. This
foundation became a beacon for environmental causes, supporting numerous
projects that addressed the preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity.
Beyond her foundation’s work, May’s personal contributions to conservation extended to
donating valuable land for preservation. Her properties in Pennsylvania and
Hawaii were gifted to organizations dedicated to maintaining the ecological
integrity of these areas, underscoring her commitment to protecting the environment.
Cordelia Scaife May’s approach to philanthropy was strategic and rooted in her belief that
human impact on the environment needed to be critically addressed. Her
initiatives often focused on sustainable development, balancing human needs
with the preservation of natural resources.
May’s philanthropic efforts left a lasting imprint on the environmental landscape. Her legacy lives
on through the continued work of the Colcom Foundation and the many
conservation projects she supported throughout her life. Her story is a
testament to the power of using personal wealth to foster positive
environmental change. Read this article for more information.
Find more information about Cordelia Scaife May on https://littlesis.org/person/79471-Cordelia_Scaife_May