Cordelia Scaife May: Philanthropy and Conservation
Cordelia Scaife May, heiress to the Mellon banking fortune, was a champion
of environmental conservation and philanthropy. Her dedication to these causes
set her apart in the philanthropic world.
Born in 1928 to a family of considerable wealth and influence, Cordelia’s early life was marked
by privilege. However, she was not one to sit idly while the world faced
pressing challenges. She took up the mantle of philanthropy, a legacy inherent
in the Mellon family, and focused her efforts on environmental conservation.
Cordelia Scaife May’s commitment to environmental preservation was profound. She believed in
the importance of safeguarding our natural resources. Through her work, Cordelia Scaife May sought to
promote an awareness of the environment’s fragile state. She donated generously
towards preserving American Indian archaeological sites, revealing her deep
regard for history and heritage.
Her philanthropy wasn’t limited to the environment. Cordelia Scaife May was also a significant
supporter of health and education initiatives. She believed that every
individual deserved a fair chance at life, and her donations reflected this
belief. Yet, it was her environmental endeavors that marked her as a truly unique philanthropist.
Cordelia’s contributions extended beyond her lifetime through the Colcom Foundation,
which she established. The foundation upheld her causes, focusing primarily on
environmental sustainability. The Colcom Foundation became a vehicle for
Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropic spirit, ensuring her impact on the world would endure.
Cordelia Scaife May passed away in 2005, yet her legacy lives on. She was a woman of wealth who
used her privilege not for personal gain, but to make the world a better place.
Her life serves as a reminder of what dedicated philanthropy can achieve.
From environmental conservation to education, Cordelia Scaife May’s contributions were vast and
influential. She remains an inspiring figure in the world of philanthropy, her
dedication to making a positive change serving as a beacon for future generations.
Refer to this page to learn more.
Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.crunchbase.com/person/cordelia-scaife-may
Cordelia Scaife May, heiress to the Mellon banking fortune, was a champion of environmental conservation and philanthropy. Her dedication to these causes set her apart in the philanthropic world. Born in 1928 to a family of considerable wealth and influence, Cordelia’s early life was marked by privilege. However, she was not one to sit idly…