The Mellon family's impact on philanthropic giving began with Andrew Mellon's donation in the 1930s of his extensive art collection to provide the beginnings of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. as well as the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery. In 1969, Andrew's children Paul and Ailsa established the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, which supports museums and art conservation, as well as higher education and scholarship, information technology research, performing arts and conservation, and the environment. In Pittsburgh, the family helped to create and continues to support Carnegie Mellon University. The Pittsburgh-based Richard King Mellon Foundation has funded the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse, the linchpin of the area's biotechnology sector, and supports schools, hospitals, and myriad causes throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. Nationally, the Richard King Mellon Foundation has led the way in land preservation, purchasing more than 2 million acres in 50 states, ensuring that this land will remain undeveloped and available for public enjoyment. Other family philanthropists include William Larimer Mellon, who founded Carnegie Mellon's business school; Sarah Scaife, a supporter of numerous Pittsburgh institutions; and their many descendants.