REBNY ANNUAL BRINGS TOGETHER TOP INDUSTRY LEADERS TO CELEBRATE INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENTS

Over 1,100 real estate, government, economic development and civic leaders convened at the historic Waldorf Astoria for the premier event

The event featured remarks from Governor Hochul

NEW YORK, NY (January 23, 2026) – On January 22, 2026, the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) hosted more than 1,100 leaders from real estate, government, labor, economic development and other leading New York City business sectors for the 130th REBNY Annual—the premier networking event for the region’s real estate industry.

Hosted at the historic Waldorf Astoria New York, the event featured the presentation of REBNY’s 2026 honorees for commitment and contributions to New York City and its residents, remarks from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, in addition to appearances by hundreds of top business executives and a wide array of other public officials across New York City, State and Federal government.

The event kicked off with red carpet press interviews showcasing REBNY’s annual honorees and other industry leaders, followed by two cocktail receptions alongside. Guests then enjoyed a three-course dinner prepared by Chef Michael Anthony, Chef Partner of Lex Yard at the Waldorf Astoria and Executive Chef & Partner of Gramercy Tavern.

The program also featured a video produced by REBNY highlighting the vital role that the real estate industry plays in supporting housing in New York City from development to building management to brokerage to construction.

“New York City’s foremost industry leaders, public officials, and civic stakeholders came together yesterday for a night of recognition, celebration, and commitment to meet the opportunities and challenges facing our City’s economy in 2026 head on,” said REBNY President James Whelan. “I am extremely grateful for our team for designing a memorable event that fully championed the spirit of REBNY in its 130th year, as well as our honorees for setting the bar for civic and professional excellence that we can all aspire to in the year ahead.”

“On its 130th anniversary, the REBNY Annual is the industry’s premier event for all those dedicated to New York City’s future as an ideal place to live, work, grow a business and raise a family,” said REBNY Chairman Jed Walentas. “The REBNY Annual always presents an excellent opportunity to take stock of our industry’s goals, the challenges NYC faces, and the leaders going above and beyond to make our city the best it can be.”

Honorees Recognized at the 2025 REBNY Annual

REBNY recognized eight honorees for their unparalleled commitment to the civic welfare of New York City and its residents, outstanding personal and professional success, and exceptional contributions to the industry. These awards are among the top professional distinctions in the real estate industry.

• The Harry B. Helmsley Distinguished New Yorker Award: Presented to Anita Laremont and David Karnovsky, Partners at Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP, for exceptional accomplishments in the profession and invaluable contributions to New York’s civic welfare.

• The Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership in Real Estate Award: Presented to Jeffrey R. Gural, Chairman and Principal of GFP Real Estate, for exceptional service to the industry and remarkable professional accomplishments over the course of his career.

• The Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award: Presented to Winston C. Fisher, Partner at Fisher Brothers & CEO of AREA15 for outstanding service to the community.

• The John E. Zuccotti Public Service Award: Presented to Christine Quinn, President and CEO of Women in Need (WIN), for exceptional accomplishments and service to the public’s interest.

• The George M. Brooker Management Executive of the Year Award: Presented to Kevin Hoey, Executive Vice President of L&L Holding Company, recognizing exceptional career accomplishments as well as service to the profession and the broader community.

• The Louis Smadbeck Memorial Broker Recognition Award: Presented to James R. Wacht, Managing Principal of Lee & Associates, recognizing a REBNY broker with personal and professional integrity, long-term leadership and prominence in the brokerage community and participation in REBNY’s committees.

• The Young Real Estate Professional of the Year Award: Presented to Camille McGratty, AVP, Head of Real Estate at Hospital for Special Surgery, for incredible professional achievements as a rising star of the industry and for civic leadership.

A portion of proceeds raised by the REBNY Annual will go to funding social impact initiatives.

# # #

ABOUT THE REAL ESTATE BOARD OF NEW YORK

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) is the City’s leading real estate trade association. Founded in 1896, REBNY represents commercial, residential, and institutional property owners, builders, managers, investors, brokers, and salespeople; banks, financial service companies, utilities, attorneys, architects, and contractors; corporations, co-partnerships, and individuals professionally interested in New York City real estate. REBNY conducts research on various civic matters including tax policy, city planning and zoning, rental conditions, land use policy, building codes, and other city, state, and federal legislation. REBNY regularly publishes market data, policy reports, and broker surveys. In addition, REBNY provides for its members: informational, technical, and technological resources; networking and charitable service opportunities; qualifying and continuing education courses; professional education programs, seminars, and designations; career-changing awards; legal advice; and a wide range of additional member benefits. For more information, please visit www.rebny.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Santarelli

212-616-5249

Communications@rebny.com