Keeler In The Community
Tina Malhotra Named Executive Director of Ridgefield’s Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center
June 16, 2026
Hildegard Grob Retires as ED After 14 Years
Ridgefield, Conn.— The Board of Directors of Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center (KTM&HC) today announced that Ridgefield resident Tina Malhotra has been named Executive Director of the organization, effective July 1. She succeeds Hildegard Grob, who is retiring after more than 14 years leading the organization through a period of significant growth and transformation.
Ms. Malhotra has served as chair of the Ridgefield Public Schools Board of Education since 2022. She most recently held leadership positions at Ann’s Place in Danbury, focused on fundraising and development, and is active in a number of local organizations, including the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE), A Better Chance (ABC), the Ridgefield Youth Commission, and the Ridgefield Rotary Club. She holds an MBA in International Business from the London School of Economics.
Demand for KTM&HC’s programs and services is at an all-time high. During the current fiscal year, nearly 3,000 students from 44 schools participated in education programs; the site hosted more than 13,000 visitors; and event space (including the historic Garden House and walled garden) is booked through 2027. The organization is thriving as it prepares to celebrate its 60th year as a museum, beginning this July.
“It’s a testament to the museum’s outstanding reputation that we attracted so many applicants from all around the country,” said David Yaun, president of KTM&HC’s Board of Directors. “Tina’s experience dealing with complex organizational issues and her deep connections in Ridgefield and surrounding communities stood out, and they will help her build on the tremendous foundation created by Hildi, the staff, and board over the past decade and a half.”
“Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center is an essential part of the Ridgefield Cultural District experience. When our family moved here 13 years ago, the museum was a place that immediately helped us feel a sense of community,” said Ms. Malhotra. “For more than three centuries, it has had a unique role as a center for civic engagement, a place where the community can come together and where conversations about important issues happen. I’m thrilled to now be part of that tradition.”
Among Ms. Malhotra’s immediate priorities will be fundraising and development to ensure a vital and vibrant future for the museum’s in-demand education and curatorial programs.
“Sustaining momentum and meeting the growing demand for our offerings requires investment in staffing and infrastructure as well as modern, accessible facilities,” Ms. Malhotra continued. “I look forward to engaging with the community in this endeavor, especially as we celebrate milestones such as America’s 250th, the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Ridgefield, and our own 60th anniversary.”