Inside REBNY’s 130th Annual: New York Real Estate’s Power Players Convene at the Waldorf

The Highlights

• 1,100+ industry leaders gathered for the 130th REBNY Annual at the Waldorf Astoria
• Governor Kathy Hochul delivered remarks as real estate, labor, and civic leaders convened
• Eight top industry figures honored for leadership, civic impact, and professional excellence
• Traded served as an official media partner for REBNY, interviewing some of the gala's VIPs.

A Power Room at a Critical Moment

The annual brought together senior executives, developers, brokers, public officials, and civic leaders at a time when housing supply, office recovery, and capital markets remain front and center. The evening included remarks from Kathy Hochul, reinforcing Albany’s continued focus on housing production and economic stability.

Red carpet interviews, VIP interviews conducted by Traded, and multiple receptions set the tone before a formal dinner prepared by Chef Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern and Lex Yard.

Industry Leadership Takes Center Stage

REBNY leadership emphasized the industry’s role in supporting New York’s housing ecosystem, from development to brokerage to building operations. James Whelan, President of REBNY, highlighted the organization’s commitment to tackling the city’s economic challenges head-on in 2026. Jed Walentas, Chairman of REBNY, framed the annual as a moment to assess progress and reaffirm the private sector’s role in keeping New York competitive. For landlords and investors, the message was clear. Despite political and market headwinds, real estate leadership remains deeply engaged in shaping the city’s future.

2025 REBNY Annual Honorees

The evening recognized eight individuals whose work has had an outsized impact on New York City and the real estate industry:

• Anita Laremont and David Karnovsky, Fried Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP, recipients of the Harry B. Helmsley Distinguished New Yorker Award
• Jeffrey R. Gural, GFP Real Estate, honored with the Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership Award
• Winston C. Fisher, Fisher Brothers, and AREA15, recipient of the Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award
• Christine Quinn, Women in Need, was awarded the John E. Zuccotti Public Service Award
• Kevin Hoey, L&L Holding Company, named Management Executive of the Year
• James R. Wacht, Lee & Associates, recipient of the Louis Smadbeck Memorial Broker Recognition Award
• Camille McGratty, Hospital for Special Surgery, was named Young Real Estate Professional of the Year

These awards remain among the most respected distinctions in New York real estate.

Why It Matters

For owners and operators, the REBNY Annual remains more than a gala. It is a signal of industry cohesion, political access, and long-term commitment to New York City at a time when housing policy, zoning, and capital formation are under constant scrutiny. A portion of the event's proceeds will fund REBNY-backed social impact initiatives, reinforcing the industry’s civic role alongside its economic one.

Bottom Line

The packed ballroom at the Waldorf Astoria sent a clear message. New York real estate is still organized, influential, and planning for growth, even in a challenging environment. For landlords and investors, that institutional alignment continues to matter.