Cordelia Scaife May, a formidable figure in the annals of American
philanthropy, left an indelible mark on environmental conservation and cultural
preservation. Her contributions, often overshadowed by more prominent family
members, are nevertheless significant in shaping conservation efforts across the United States. 

Born into the influential Mellon family, Cordelia Scaife May dedicated much of her life and
fortune to causes she held dear. Her philanthropic endeavors were multifaceted,
focusing predominantly on land conservation, population control, and artistic
heritage. Her legacy is most prominently carried forward by the Colcom
Foundation, which she established to continue her work in environmental preservation. 

May’s estate, valued at over $800 million at the time of her passing in 2005, was largely
allocated to foundations and conservation groups, ensuring that her commitment
to environmental causes would endure. The Colcom Foundation, headquartered in Pittsburgh, received her personal
property and extensive real estate holdings in Pennsylvania. With these
resources, the foundation has been able to support numerous conservation
projects, from land preservation to water quality initiatives. 

In addition to her domestic efforts, Cordelia Scaife May also made substantial contributions to
international conservation. Notably, she bequeathed her properties in Hawaii to
the Nature Conservancy and the National Tropical Botanical Garden. These bequests
ensured the protection of vital ecosystems and the continuation of research into native plant species. 

While Cordelia Scaife May’s name might not be as widely recognized as other philanthropists,
her impact on conservation and cultural preservation is profound. Cordelia Scaife May’s life’s work demonstrates the power of dedicated
philanthropy in effecting long-term environmental and societal benefits. 

As contemporary conversations around conservation and environmental sustainability continue to
evolve, the legacy of Cordelia Scaife May stands as a testament to the enduring
impact of committed and thoughtful philanthropy. Her contributions continue to inspire
and drive efforts to protect and preserve natural and cultural resources for
future generations. Read this article for more information. 

Find more information about Cordelia Scaife May on https://about.me/cordeliascaifemay