Hershey, PA | The AACA Museum, Inc. — America’s Transportation Experience — honored Antonia W. “Toni” Rothman (Garnet Valley, PA) by naming the Route 66 Exhibition Space in her honor.
Toni served as the AACA Museum’s first female Board of Directors member. Her 15-years of active and tireless effort while serving on the board helped guide the museum in the early years and through recent turbulent times. Executive Director Jeffrey Bliemeister said, “Toni’s insight and experience have been integral to the museum’s success since 2006. Then, as we faced the COVID-19 Pandemic, we counted on Toni and the entire board to bring innovative ideas to the table to help the museum succeed in unprecedented times.”
During her tenure, Toni chaired the first Membership Committee. She later led the Development and Nominating Committees and served on the Marketing Committee. Museum Board President Rick Risser commented, “We are so grateful to Toni. Her efforts to support the museum have been invaluable. She has always stepped up, whether leading new initiatives, envisioning ways to grow, or coordinating compelling engagement.”
Devoted to introducing new opportunities for automotive enthusiasts, Toni arranged many museum excursions and events. She organized the museum’s seven international tours that included destinations in England, Italy, and Cuba. Further, she coordinated trips to view private automobile collections for the 161 Society — the museum’s leadership giving program. Twice, she led 161 Society members on Florida trips and coordinated trips to many Pennsylvania-based private collections. Toni planned and directed the “Night at the Museum” fundraising gala and chaired five successful annual events.
For many years Toni, together with her late husband David, spearheaded the museum’s Adopt-A-Car project. Later, to recognize David Rothman’s efforts, Toni generously funded the “Shady Motors” car dealership in the Route 66 Gallery.
Toni’s dedication to the museum continues. She was recently named as the organization’s first female Director, Emeritus. “Now, we are thrilled to recognize her efforts by naming the Route 66 Exhibition Space in her honor,” said Bliemeister. Congratulations, and thank you, Toni Rothman.
