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Posted: September 9, 2025
The Real Estate Board of New York announces honorees for the 130th REBNY Annual at the Waldorf Astoria
Manhattan, NY The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) named the 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 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 Gural, chairman and principal, GFP Real Estate, LLC
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, associate vice president, 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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