Meet the Board: Cara Ingram
Cara Ingram’s life has been shaped by the kind of experiences that quietly build resilience, perspective, and compassion. Growing up on her family’s farm in Anna, Ohio, she learned early that hard work was simply part of life — and that strong families and communities are built when people show up for one another, no matter the circumstances.
After graduating from the University of Dayton with a degree in Business, Marketing, and Management, Cara carried those values into every stage of her career. But long before her professional journey began, one life experience would leave the deepest impact on who she would become.
When Cara’s father suffered an injury that left him paraplegic, her family faced a season filled with uncertainty and challenges. Through it all, she watched her father meet adversity with remarkable strength and optimism.
“He never gave up,” Cara shared. “That mindset became a powerful example for all of us. It taught me that while you can’t always control what happens to you, you can control how you respond.”
That perspective continues to guide both her personal and professional life today.
Cara began her career with Sherwin-Williams, where she worked as an assistant manager and decorator, building a strong foundation in customer service, leadership, and problem-solving. Over time, her role expanded into her family’s optometry practice, where she now plays a significant role in operations, management, and long-term planning.
Cara and her family: her husband, Matt, and their children, Vince, Josephine, Tony, & Eden.
Being part of a family business has reinforced the importance of balancing growth with maintaining strong community connections — something that aligns closely with the mission of Marietta Community Foundation.
Her commitment to community involvement has always been hands-on. Cara has volunteered in local elementary schools, coached youth volleyball and cheerleading, supported the high school rowing program by organizing meals and logistics for athletes and families, and helped raise funds for the Harmar Rowing Club to ensure opportunities remain accessible for students.
“What excites me most about the Foundation is the opportunity to support programs and organizations that are truly making a difference,” Cara said. “When we invest in students, families, and local initiatives, we’re helping build a community where people want to stay, return to, and raise their own families.”
As a parent, that mission feels especially personal to her. Cara is passionate about helping create a community where future generations can build meaningful lives, feel connected, and continue choosing Washington County as a place to call home.
