Over the course of her two decades in commercial strategy and revenue optimization, Rhonda Khabir has quite literally traversed the country to get to where she is today. Having previously served as senior vice president of sales and marketing for a hotel management company in Hawaii, Khabir says her experiences in strategic planning, business growth, and aligning organizational goals with revenue performance have resulted in a natural progression to her current role.
Credit: Rhonda Khabir
As vice president of commercial for The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Khabir says she today gets to combine her professional expertise with her admiration for the foundation’s mission. “I was drawn to Colonial Williamsburg for its remarkable blend of historical significance and present-day commercial opportunities,” Khabir tells Group Tour. “I am excited to apply my expertise to drive the foundation’s growth, contribute to its mission, and deliver exceptional value to both our visitors and stakeholders.”
With the United States’ 250th birthday nearing in 2026, a lot is in store for the world’s largest living history museum. We spoke with Khabir to learn more about all the historic landmark has planned for the upcoming celebration.
Q. With the approach of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, what will The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation do to celebrate?
A. The year 2026 marks two notable anniversaries: the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America and the 100th anniversary of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. This institution—envisioned by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1926—began as an idea to restore the 18th-century town of Williamsburg, creating a center for educating the public about our history. Today, it stands as the world’s largest U.S. history museum and a hub for education, preservation, and research.
As the world’s largest U.S. history museum, Colonial Williamsburg is leading the country in the planning for 2026. We are convening the nation’s museums, scholars and educators, and civic leaders to plan a celebration and commemoration that will inspire millions to explore America’s past, reflect on its legacy into the present, and understand their role in safeguarding the nation’s future. At the same time, we are dramatically expanding our efforts in the areas of preservation, education, and civic engagement—the core pillars of our work to discover and share a more complete history of America’s founding.
Q. Does the foundation have any upcoming projects or initiatives our planners should look out for?
A. Yes, Colonial Williamsburg has several exciting projects and initiatives on the horizon that planners should definitely keep an eye on. We are preparing to launch a series of enhanced experiences and special events in celebration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, which will offer unique opportunities for groups to engage with American history in new and meaningful ways.
Additionally, our educational programs and interactive exhibits provide even more enriching and immersive experiences for visitors. These initiatives are designed to offer diverse and engaging content that will appeal to a wide range of interests and group sizes.
We encourage planners to stay tuned for updates on these developments, as they promise to add significant value to any group visit and ensure an unforgettable experience for all participants.
Q. What is your favorite thing about promoting Colonial Williamsburg as an ideal group tour destination?
A. My favorite aspect of promoting Colonial Williamsburg as an ideal group tour destination is showcasing its unique ability to offer an immersive and educational experience that brings history to life. The combination of authentic historical settings, interactive programs, and engaging storytelling creates a dynamic environment that captivates and educates groups of all sizes. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how Colonial Williamsburg’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere foster a deeper connection with America’s past, making each visit memorable and impactful for every group tour.
Q. Why is it important to preserve historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg, and what can we learn from these sites today?
A. Preserving historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg is essential because they serve as living reminders of our collective heritage. These sites allow us to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped our nation’s history, providing invaluable lessons in governance, resilience, and community. By experiencing Colonial Williamsburg firsthand, we connect with the ideals and challenges of the past, fostering a deeper understanding of how far we’ve come and what we can learn to guide the future. It’s a way of ensuring that the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us are never forgotten, and that they continue to inspire future generations.
Q. What is something you’d like to share with our readers?
A. For me, one of the most compelling aspects of Colonial Williamsburg is the continuous discovery of new insights that illuminate our shared history. Every day, our team unearths new findings that deepen our understanding of this significant place where Europeans, free and enslaved Black individuals, and Native Americans first came together.
These discoveries not only enrich our historical narrative but also highlight the diverse and complex interactions that shaped early American history. By sharing these revelations, we aim to provide a more inclusive and nuanced perspective on our past, honoring the contributions and experiences of all groups involved.
By Madeline Fuerstenberg
Main Image: Colonial Williamsburg; Credit: Colonial Williamsburg
