HGAR CEO Fernandez honored with NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Award

Bronx, NY Lynda Fernandez, CEO of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR), was recognized with the Hispanic Advocacy Award from the New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at its 19^th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Ceremony at Maestro’s Caterer’s. Fernandez was among three honorees at the event.

“We are very pleased to honor three exceptional individuals who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields, and at the same time, continually contribute their time and effort in communities at the local level,” said Nick Lugo, president, and CEO of NYCHCC. “We were very delighted to honor three outstanding individuals with impressive portfolios, as well as present Scholarship Awards to exceptional students,” said Cindy Rubi Estrada, executive director, NYCHCC. 

Fernandez has more than 20 years of experience in association management, government affairs, communications, and international business development. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), Realtor Association Certified Executive (RCE), and a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS).

She joined HGAR in September 2023 after serving as CEO of the Greater Louisville Association of Realtors for two years. Among her chief accomplishments there included launching Kentucky’s first Global Council as well as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

“I’m deeply honored. This recognition is a testament to the incredible leadership, staff, and members of HGAR, whose dedication and support make the work I love possible,” said Fernandez. “It’s a privilege to represent HGAR and my heritage while working in the vibrant markets of NYC and the Hudson Valley. Together, we’re driving economic growth and advancing housing opportunities for all.”

Previously, Fernandez held several positions with the Miami Association of Realtors, where she served as Miami’s chief of communications & global for three years and senior vice president of public relations and international for Miami for almost 14 years. Her real estate career also involved many significant Realtor association mergers, including the historic 2010 merger between The Realtor Association of Greater Miami and the Beaches (RAMB) and the Realtor Association of Miami-Dade County (RAMDC), which created the Miami Association of Realtors, now the largest local Realtor association in the nation.

Prior to her association with the Miami Association of Realtors, Fernandez worked in public relations for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Florida International University in Miami, FL, and a Master of Accounting Degree from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL.