Born into the prominent Mellon family in 1928, Cordelia Scaife May was indifferent to the family
wealth. Yet, she effectively utilized her fortune to make the world a better place. 

Cordelia Scaife May stepped into the philanthropic realm with the launch
of the Laurel Foundation in 1951. She was 23 and eager to address the isolation
she experienced during her sheltered upbringing. The foundation initially
supported artistic endeavors, women empowerment, and educational initiatives. 

A substantial part of May’s philanthropy was directed towards environmental conservation. Her
interest in matters of the Earth’s health was not a sudden inclination but
stemmed from a deep-rooted love for nature and understanding of the
environment. She championed the causes of land preservation, watershed
protection, and environmental education, consistently advocating for the
responsible use of Earth’s resources. 

Cordelia Scaife May extended her environmental concerns to include
population growth and immigration reforms. She understood the intricate dance
between population and sustainability. She believed unchecked population growth
could lead to the overconsumption of resources, thus contributing to environmental degradation. 

Hence, Cordelia ScaifeMay supported sustainable immigration, which she saw as an essential
aspect of preserving resources and mitigating environmental damage. By aligning
immigration policies with conservation goals, she hoped to promote a harmonious
coexistence of human populations and the environment. 

In 1996, Cordelia Scaife May founded the Colcom Foundation, which became the platform to channel her
environmental and sustainability vision. She strategically used her influence
and wealth to make a lasting impact on the preservation of natural resources for future generations. 

Even though Cordelia Scaife May has been away since 2005, her philanthropic journey
continues to inspire many. Her work remains a testament to the belief that
humanity can – and should – coexist sustainably with Earth’s resources. Her
legacy, as pitched by the Colcom foundation, continues to remind us of the
importance of responsible stewardship. See related link for additional information. 

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