Cordelia Scaife May is remembered as a remarkable philanthropist who
dedicated her life to making a positive impact on both humanity and the
environment. Born into a family of immense wealth and influence, Cordelia’s
commitment to philanthropy stemmed from her upbringing and the values instilled
by her parents.
As the daughter of Sarah Cordelia Mellon Scaife, an esteemed philanthropist, Cordelia was inspired
by her mother’s generosity and compassion. Sarah, a generous donor to various
humanitarian causes, contributed significant amounts to family planning, hospitals,
disability and poverty issues, environmental conservation, and local museums.
Her charitable contributions, notably her funding of a virus research lab at
the University of Pittsburgh, had a lasting impact on society.
Following in her mother’s footsteps, Cordelia focused her philanthropic efforts on environmental
conservation and education. She displayed a deep commitment to protecting
American Indian archaeological sites, donating a substantial portion of her
Westmoreland County property to a national preservation society. Cordelia’s
dedication to environmentalism extended to her support for controlled
immigration, driven by her belief that unregulated population growth and
urbanization have significant environmental implications.
Cordelia’s philanthropic activities were primarily facilitated through the Colcom
Foundation, a Pittsburgh-based charitable organization that she established.
Known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, the
foundation continues to carry on Cordelia’s legacy and support causes aligned
with her values.
Beyond her local philanthropic endeavors, Cordelia Scaife May’s generosity extended beyond borders. Properties she owned in Hawaii and
Virginia were bequeathed to organizations dedicated to nature conservation and
preventive medicine, respectively.
Cordelia Scaife May’s legacy lives on, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Her
commitment to environmental stewardship and philanthropy serves as a reminder
that even those born into privilege can make a significant difference in the
world. As her philanthropic endeavors continue to impact society, Cordelia’s
contributions will be remembered as a testament to her unwavering dedication to
making the world a better place for future generations.
In conclusion, Cordelia Scaife May’s remarkable legacy as a philanthropist and environmental
steward will continue to inspire generations to come. Her commitment to
improving society and preserving the environment serves as a shining example of
the positive impact that can be achieved through generosity and dedication. As
her philanthropic initiatives continue to be carried out by the Colcom Foundation and other organizations, Cordelia’s vision for a
better world lives on. Her legacy is a testament to the transformative power of
giving back and making a lasting impact on our communities and the world as a
whole.
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