Cordelia Scaife May stands as a remarkable figure in American philanthropy, leaving an indelible
mark on numerous social and environmental causes. Born in 1928 into
Pittsburgh’s prominent Mellon family, May used her wealth to champion issues
she believed in fervently.
May’s philanthropic journey began with the establishment of the Laurel Foundation in 1951, focusing
initially on the arts, education, and female empowerment. Her commitment to
these causes remained steadfast throughout her life. The foundation supported various
initiatives, including the National Aviary and the Allegheny Land Trust,
reflecting May’s deep-seated love for nature and conservation.
Cordelia Scaife May’s contributions were not limited to the early years of her philanthropic
endeavors. In 1996, she founded the Colcom Foundation, which became a
significant force in promoting sustainable development. The foundation’s
mission mirrored May’s concerns about overpopulation and its impact on
environmental degradation. Through strategic grants, the Colcom Foundation
has supported numerous projects aimed at balancing population growth with the
Earth’s finite resources.
One of May’s notable achievements was her support for Planned Parenthood and family planning
initiatives. She believed that managing population growth was crucial for
sustainable coexistence with the environment. Her advocacy extended to
immigration reform, where she sought policies that aligned with her broader
environmental goals.
Despite her wealth, Cordelia Scaife May led a relatively private life, often shunning public
recognition. Her philanthropic activities were characterized by a preference
for anonymity, allowing the causes she supported to take center stage. This
quiet approach to giving earned her the respect and admiration of those who knew her.
In summary, Cordelia Scaife May’s legacy is a testament to her unwavering dedication to
philanthropy. Her thoughtful approach to giving has left a lasting impact on
environmental conservation and social issues, ensuring that her contributions
continue to benefit future generations. Refer to this article to learn more.
Find more information about Cordelia Scaife May on https://littlesis.org/person/79471-Cordelia_Scaife_May