The Real Estate Board of New York Announces Honorees for the 130th REBNY Annual at the Waldorf Astoria

NEW YORK, NY — The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) is proud to announce the distinguished honorees for the 130th REBNY Annual, the premier event celebrating the leaders shaping New York City’s real estate and civic landscape. The celebration will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York, newly restored to its historic grandeur following a significant renovation.

Now in its 130th year, the REBNY Annual continues to be the most anticipated evening in New York real estate, bringing together industry executives, public officials, labor leaders and civic stakeholders for a night of celebration, networking, and an awards dinner curated by the Waldorf Astoria’s world-class culinary team. Honorees will be seated at the iconic REBNY dais alongside a group of exceptional leaders.

“REBNY is proud to shine a spotlight on this year’s honorees—visionaries whose careers have been defined by innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to New York City,” said REBNY President James Whelan. “We look forward to celebrating their achievements in a space that has hosted generations of icons.” 2026 REBNY Annual Honorees

• The Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership in Real Estate Award

  Jeffrey R. Gural, Chairman and Principal, GFP Real Estate

  For exceptional accomplishments and invaluable contributions to New York and its real estate industry.

• The Harry B. Helmsley Distinguished New Yorker Award

  Anita Laremont and David Karnovsky, Partners, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP

  For a lifetime of professional excellence and contributions to New York’s civic welfare.

• The Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award

  Winston Fisher, Partner, Fisher Brothers & CEO, AREA15

  For outstanding service to the community.

• The John E. Zuccotti Public Service Award

  Christine Quinn, President & CEO, Women in Need (WIN)

  For exceptional accomplishments and service in the public interest.

• The George M. Brooker Management Executive of the Year Award

  Kevin Hoey, Executive Vice President, L&L Holding Company

  For career excellence and service to the profession and broader community.

• The Louis Smadbeck Memorial Broker Recognition Award

  James Wacht, Managing Principal, Lee & Associates

  For integrity, leadership, and long-standing contributions to the brokerage community and REBNY.

• The Young Real Estate Professional of the Year Award

  Camille McGratty, AVP, Head of Real Estate, Hospital for Special Surgery

  For outstanding professional achievements and civic leadership as a rising star in the industry.

For more information on this year’s honorees, click here.

Visit the REBNY Annual here, for sponsorship, tables, and ticket sales.

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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.