Cordelia Scaife May: A Philanthropist Committed to Environmental Conservation

Cordelia Scaife May, the heiress to a substantial banking fortune, dedicated her life and
wealth to making a positive impact on the world. Born into the influential
Mellon family, Cordelia Scaife May’s commitment to philanthropy and environmental conservation remains a
lasting legacy. 

Cordelia Scaife May was the daughter of Sarah Cordelia Mellon Scaife, an American heiress and
philanthropist, and Alan Magee Scaife, an industrialist and president of the
Scaife Company. Growing up in a family known for its wealth, influence, and
philanthropic endeavors, Cordelia inherited a sense of responsibility to give
back. 

Her mother, Sarah Cordelia Mellon Scaife, continued the family’s tradition of philanthropy,
donating generously to various humanitarian causes. From supporting family
planning and hospitals to environmental conservation and museums, Sarah’s
contributions left a lasting impact on society. For instance, her donation of
$35,000 equipped a virus research lab at the University of Pittsburgh, where
the polio vaccine was developed. 

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Cordelia Scaife May focused her philanthropic efforts on
environmental conservation. She was deeply passionate about protecting American
Indian archaeological sites and donated a significant portion of her
Westmoreland County property to a national preservation society. Cordelia
believed in the importance of limiting immigration to address the environmental
implications of unchecked population growth and urbanization. 

To ensure the continuation of her philanthropic work, she established the Colcom Foundation. This Pittsburgh-based charitable organization now
carries the torch for environmental conservation and sustainability. Through
her foundation, Cordelia bequeathed her personal property and Pennsylvania real
estate, including over four hundred and fifty acres in Westmoreland County. 

Cordelia’s dedication to environmental stewardship and philanthropy continues to inspire
those who benefit from her philanthropy. Her strategic approach to giving
ensures that her legacy will live on, supporting causes aligned with her
values. 

In January 2005, Cordelia Scaife May passed away at the age of 76 after battling pancreatic
cancer. Her impact on the world, however, remains immeasurable. Her commitment
to environmental conservation, education, and humanitarian causes serves as a
reminder that even with great wealth, one can make a profound difference in the
world. 

May’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of using privilege and resources for the betterment
of society. As the Colcom Foundation and other organizations carry forward her
vision, Cordelia’s contributions to environmental conservation and philanthropy
will continue to shape the world for years to come. Visit this page for related information. 

Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/194246213/cordelia-mellon-may 

Cordelia Scaife May, the heiress to a substantial banking fortune, dedicated her life and wealth to making a positive impact on the world. Born into the influential Mellon family, Cordelia Scaife May’s commitment to philanthropy and environmental conservation remains a lasting legacy.  Cordelia Scaife May was the daughter of Sarah Cordelia Mellon Scaife, an American…