Cordelia Scaife May: A Philanthropic Legacy of Generosity and Conservation

Cordelia Scaife May, a prominent figure in the world of philanthropy and environmental
conservation, has left an enduring mark through her unwavering commitment to
making positive changes in society. Born into a wealthy family with a long
history of philanthropy, Cordelia Scaife May’s dedication to giving back was ingrained from an early age. 

Cordelia Scaife May, the daughter of Sarah Cordelia Mellon Scaife and Alan Magee Scaife, was
born on December 10, 1928, into a family that held significant influence and
wealth. Her mother, Sarah, continued the family’s philanthropic tradition,
making substantial donations to various causes such as family planning,
hospitals, disability and poverty issues, environmental conservation, and
museums in the Pittsburgh region. 

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Cordelia Scaife May established herself as a passionate
advocate for environmental stewardship. She dedicated her resources and efforts
to protecting American Indian archaeological sites and supporting limitations
on immigration, driven by her belief that unchecked population growth and
urbanization have severe environmental consequences. 

Through the establishment of the Colcom Foundation, Cordelia
Scaife May ensured that her philanthropic endeavors would continue long after
her passing. The foundation, known for its commitment to environmental
conservation and sustainability, became the guardian of Cordelia’s legacy. 

Cordelia’s commitment to environmental causes extended beyond her home state of
Pennsylvania. Properties she owned on the islands of Maui and Kauai were
bequeathed to the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii and the National Tropical
Botanical Garden, respectively. In Virginia, land she owned supports the
International Academy for Preventive Medicine. 

Cordelia Scaife May passed away in January 2005, leaving behind a legacy
of generosity and environmental stewardship. Her dedication to making a
positive impact on society serves as an inspiration for those who continue to
work towards a better future. As Colcom Foundation and other organizations
carry forth her vision, Cordelia’s contributions to environmental conservation
and philanthropy will continue to make a lasting impact. 

In conclusion, May’s philanthropic legacy is a testament to the transformative power of using
wealth and resources to improve the world we live in. Her commitment to
environmental conservation and her dedication to supporting causes aligned with
her values will continue to shape the future for generations to come. Read this article for more information. 

More about Cordelia Scaife May on https://ancestors.familysearch.org/en/LXQM-NYQ/cordelia-mellon-scaife-1928-2005