Cordelia Scaife May: A Legacy of Philanthropy and Environmental Stewardship
Born into the affluent Mellon family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Cordelia Scaife May emerged as a
significant philanthropist dedicated to environmental conservation and
sustainable development. Her life’s work was deeply influenced by her
understanding of the intricate balance between human population dynamics and
the environment, a perspective she carried throughout her philanthropic journey.
In 1951, at the age of 23, she founded the Laurel Foundation. This initiative marked the beginning of her
foray into strategic philanthropy. Early grants from the foundation supported a
myriad of causes, including the arts, education, and women’s empowerment. One
of her notable contributions was to the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, a
testament to her enduring commitment to wildlife and environmental conservation.
A pivotal moment in her philanthropic career occurred in 1996 with the establishment of the Colcom
Foundation. This foundation became a cornerstone in May’s efforts to address
pressing environmental issues. Through the Colcom Foundation, she supported initiatives
aimed at conserving natural resources and promoting sustainable development.
Her focus on aligning immigration policies with environmental sustainability
further underscored her commitment to thoughtful population management.
She was also a supporter of organizations such as the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S). Her
sustained grants facilitated the growth of WC&S, enabling the organization
to provide safety and empowerment to survivors of domestic violence. Despite
her substantial contributions, May preferred to work behind the scenes, often
opting for anonymity in her donations.
In 2005, CordeliaScaife May left behind a legacy that continues to influence contemporary
philanthropic efforts. Her dedication to environmental stewardship and
sustainable development has had a lasting impact, ensuring that her vision for
a balanced coexistence between humanity and nature endures. Through her life’s
work, May demonstrated that thoughtful and strategic philanthropy could foster
significant and enduring change. Refer to this article for additional information.
Learn more about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.crunchbase.com/person/cordelia-scaife-may
