Cordelia Scaife May, a woman of profound influence and compassion, left an indelible mark on the
world through her philanthropic endeavors. Born into the prominent Mellon
family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May dedicated her life to making a
difference in the lives of others. Her philanthropic journey, spanning decades,
touched upon various issues, from environmental conservation to women’s rights. 

May’s commitment to the environment and sustainability was evident in her support for land
conservation and watershed protection initiatives. Recognizing the impact of
rapid population growth on the environment, May also championed immigration
reform as a means to achieve a sustainable coexistence. She believed that
responsible immigration policies could help balance population dynamics and
protect finite resources. 

Her most notable contributions was her support for the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh
(WC&S). Through sustained funding, May empowered the organization to provide safety, healing,
and empowerment to survivors of domestic violence. Her anonymous support played
a pivotal role in breaking the cycles of violence and supporting survivors on
their journey to recovery. 

In 1996, May established the Colcom Foundation, further solidifying her commitment to
various causes close to her heart. The foundation became a platform for
addressing key issues related to the sustainability of resources and climate
change activism. With her substantial endowment, May aimed to create a lasting
impact on the preservation of natural resources for future generations. 

Cordelia Scaife May’s philanthropy was characterized by humility and a genuine desire to make a
difference. Despite her immense wealth, Cordelia Scaife May shunned the limelight and sought no public accolades.
Her contributions were driven by a deep belief in the causes she supported, and
she worked quietly behind the scenes to bring about meaningful change. 

Today, May’s legacy lives on through the organizations she supported and the impact she made in the
lives of countless individuals. Her philanthropic journey serves as an
inspiration to all, reminding us of the power we hold to make a positive
difference in the world. Cordelia Scaife May will forever be remembered for her
unwavering commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future for
all. Refer to this page for related information. 

More about Cordelia Scaife May on https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/194246213/cordelia-mellon-may