For Cara Offterdinger Dolence, Class of 1999, The Woods Academy was more than just a school—it was the spark that ignited her lifelong curiosity about the world. Since leaving The Woods, Cara has lived in London, Tokyo, and now Paris with her husband, their toddler daughter, and their ten-year-old dog. Her journey across continents is a testament to how early experiences shape lifelong passions, and in her case, The Woods Academy played a pivotal role in fostering her love for other cultures and languages.
A Global Career Rooted in Early Curiosity
Cara's career in marketing and partnerships for start-ups and non-profits reflects her passion for building connections. She studied Political Science and English at Virginia Tech, where she also had her first study-abroad experience in London. Later, she earned an MBA from The University of Texas at Austin, which included international trips to Ecuador and Israel. However, her international journey truly began at The Woods Academy.
"I’ve been interested in other countries and cultures for as long as I can remember," Cara says. "I’m sure my early introduction to French and the international culture during my time at The Woods Academy had something to do with that." That foundational exposure to world languages and diverse perspectives instilled in her a comfort with new environments and a readiness to embrace the unfamiliar.
In 2017, Cara and her husband moved from Austin, Texas, to London—a bold decision fueled by their desire to push themselves out of their comfort zones. After five years in London, an opportunity arose to move to Tokyo, where they lived for two years and welcomed their daughter. In 2024, they relocated to Paris, a city that felt like a natural choice due to Cara's background in French.
Lasting Lessons from The Woods Academy
When reflecting on her time at The Woods, Cara recalls an atmosphere of warmth, kindness, and support. Teachers like Mr. Maloney and Mrs. Piwko pushed students to excel while fostering a nurturing environment. Art class with Mrs. Dyer was particularly influential—an experience that gave Cara the confidence to explore creative pursuits throughout her life.
"I’ve painted several pieces of art for my apartments over the years, and I attribute my lack of fear when it comes to art to her," she shares.
Beyond the classroom, the school community left a lasting impression. Memories of Mrs. Higgins reading in the library, the French Festival run by her mother for many years, and the kindness of Mr. Aguirre, part of the school’s facilities team, remain vivid. These experiences taught Cara that a strong community can be a grounding force, no matter where life takes you.
The Power of Language and Cultural Exposure
One of the most tangible influences of The Woods Academy on Cara's life is her French language background. She began learning French as a Luncher, which laid the foundation for her current immersion in Parisian culture.
"Having that early start with the language has made it so much easier to advance my French skills as an adult," she explains. Her daughter, who attends a French daycare (crèche), already speaks half of her vocabulary in French and boasts an accent that surpasses her mother’s.
Cara credits The Woods Academy's emphasis on world languages and international exposure with shaping her openness to global living. "I feel so lucky to have been exposed to a second language that early. It’s a part of my brain in a way that wouldn’t have happened if I started learning it later in life," she says.
Advice for Future Generations
When asked what advice she would offer to current Woods Academy students, Cara emphasizes kindness, curiosity, and the value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
"The Woods is an amazingly supportive community that gives students the safe environment to explore different topics," she notes. "Keep that curiosity going—if you stay curious, you’ll find yourself in places you never even thought possible."
For Cara, leading a life of significance means embracing challenges and fostering community. Whether working with mission-driven organizations or building a joyful home in a foreign country, she continuously seeks to create connection and understanding.
As The Woods Academy celebrates its 50th anniversary, Cara reflects on the institution's enduring impact. "It’s been great to see The Woods Academy grow since I was there while still keeping the things that made it great—Montessori, small classes, and a focus on world language," she says.
Her journey is a testament to how a supportive educational environment can plant the seeds for a lifetime of exploration and personal growth. From the classrooms of The Woods Academy to the bustling streets of Paris, Cara Dolence exemplifies the school’s mission: to prepare students to lead lives of significance.
Cara Offterdinger Dolence's Grade 8 yearbook page.