Cordelia Scaife May, the heiress to a substantial banking fortune, left an
indelible mark on the world through her unwavering commitment to philanthropy
and environmental conservation. Born on December 10, 1928, Cordelia 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.
Cordelia Scaife May was a scion of the Mellon family, known for their wealth, philanthropy, and
influence in the United States. Her grandfather, Judge Thomas Mellon, and her
uncle, Andrew W. Mellon, played pivotal roles in shaping the nation’s economic
landscape during the Great Depression. The Mellon fortune included significant
holdings in Mellon Bank, Gulf Oil, and Alcoa, establishing the family as one of
the wealthiest in the country.
Following in her mother’s footsteps, Cordelia dedicated her life to giving back. Her
philanthropic focus was centered around environmental conservation and
education. She believed in the importance of preserving natural resources and
protecting the planet for future generations. Cordelia’s dedication to
environmental stewardship led her to support various initiatives aimed at
protecting American Indian archaeological sites and promoting sustainable practices.
One of Cordelia Scaife May’s most notable contributions was the establishment of the Colcom Foundation, a Pittsburgh-based charitable organization that
continues to carry out her philanthropic vision. With a focus on environmental
conservation and sustainability, the foundation has become a custodian of
Cordelia’s legacy, ensuring that her values and causes are upheld.
Cordelia’s generosity extended beyond her own backyard. She donated properties in Hawaii
and Virginia to organizations dedicated to conservation and education. Her
commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale is a testament to her
unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship.
Cordelia Scaife May’s legacy of generosity and environmental stewardship continues to
inspire and motivate others to take action. Her contributions to philanthropy
and conservation serve as a reminder that each individual has the power to make
a difference. As we strive to create a better world, let us look to Cordelia’s
legacy as a guiding light, fueling our efforts to protect and preserve our
planet for generations to come.
In conclusion, Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropic endeavors and commitment to environmental
stewardship have left an indelible mark on the world. Her dedication to giving
back and preserving the environment serves as an inspiration to us all. Through
her legacy, we are reminded of the power of individual action and the lasting
impact it can have on our planet. Let us honor Cordelia’s memory by continuing
her work and striving to make a positive difference in the world around us.
See related link for more information.
More about Cordelia Scaife May on https://ancestors.familysearch.org/en/LXQM-NYQ/cordelia-mellon-scaife-1928-2005