REBNY Announces Honorees for 130th Annual at Waldorf-Astoria

The Real Estate Board of New York has announced 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, Jan. 22, 2026, at the Waldorf Astoria New York, newly restored to its historic grandeur following a significant renovation.

“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.”

The 2026 REBNY Annual Honorees include the following:

• The Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership in Real Estate Award: Jeffrey R. 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, AVP, Head of Real Estate, Hospital for Special Surgery; for outstanding professional achievements and civic leadership as a rising star in the industry.