REBNY to celebrate 131st REBNY Annual - Jan. 14, 2026 at Waldorf Astoria
Manhattan, NY The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) will recognize the honorees for the 131st REBNY Annual, the industry’s premier event celebrating the people whose work and leadership have helped shape the city. The celebration will take place on Thursday, January 14, at the Waldorf Astoria New York.
The REBNY Annual will once again bring together leaders of New York’s real estate industry, public officials, labor, and civic stakeholders for an evening of celebration. This year’s honorees will join the iconic REBNY dais alongside a group of exceptional leaders.
“This year’s honorees have each made an extraordinary contribution to New York City,” said REBNY president James Whelan. “Their leadership, service and commitment to New York reflect what the REBNY Annual has celebrated for more than a century, and we look forward to recognizing their achievements.”
2027 REBNY Annual honorees
The John E. Zuccotti Public Service Award
Jessica Tisch, New York City Police commissioner
For exceptional accomplishments and service in the public interest.
The Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership in Real Estate Award
Gary Barnett, founder and chairman, Extell Development Company
For exceptional accomplishments and invaluable contributions to New York and its real estate industry.
The Harry B. Helmsley Distinguished New Yorker Award
David Arena, head of global corporate real estate, JPMorgan Chase
For a lifetime of exceptional accomplishments in the profession and invaluable contributions to New York’s civic welfare.
The Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award
Lisa Silverstein, CEO, Silverstein Properties
For meritorious service to the community.
The Louis Smadbeck Memorial Broker Recognition Award
James Nelson, principal and head of U.S. investment sales, Avison Young
For personal and professional integrity, long-term leadership and prominence in the brokerage community, and contributions to REBNY.
The George M. Brooker Management Executive of the Year Award
Marisa Gadlin, executive vice president, chief administrative officer and head of Core Holdings, Rockefeller Group
For exceptional career accomplishments and service to the profession and broader community.
The Young Real Estate Professional of the Year Award
Caroline Merck, senior vice president, CBRE
For outstanding professional achievements as a rising star in the industry and for civic leadership.
For more information about the 2027 REBNY Annual visit https://www.rebny.com/rebny-annual/.