GRAR Award Winners
GRAR REALTOR® of the Year
REALTOR® of the Year is the highest honor that the Board can bestow upon one of its members. The candidate displays distinguished service in the promotion and advancement of the interests and the ideals of the real estate profession. He or she also demonstrates an ongoing involvement in real estate activities (GRAR, WCR, NYSAR, NAR or otherwise) exemplifying an ambassador of the Association as well as interests in the community.
Lanie Bittner, GRAR REALTOR® of the Year 2024
Breaking Barriers Award
Recognizes individuals who have broken barriers and advocated for more equitable opportunities in real estate and our community. This annual award honors the legacy of Howard W Coles, a local civil rights leader and REALTOR®, who dedicated his life to advancing social justice.
Damaris Rivera, 2024 Breaking Barriers Award Winner
Community Service Award
In memory of Fran Henty. GRAR recognizes an individual who is willing to ‘go that extra mile’ within their real estate careers and personal lives. The Community Service Award recognizes an individual who made significant contributions to enhancing the quality of life in their community through service, volunteerism, and leadership. This award honors those who demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the welfare of others.
Maria Casale, 2024 Community Service Award Winner
Leadership Through Education Award
NEW in 2024 In memory of Edith Lank. This award celebrates individuals who uphold the highest standards of excellence in educating and inspiring others. It recognizes a distinguished real estate professional who embodies generosity, dedication, and a passion for mentoring and teaching within the industry. The recipient shares their knowledge through various platforms—such as podcasts, video content, in-brokerage training, social media, classroom settings, online courses, casual lunch-and-learns, networking events, or direct-to-consumer education. Recipients of this award continue this legacy, making a lasting impact on both the professional and personal lives of their peers.
Danielle Clement, 2024 Leadership Through Education Award Winner
Legacy Award
NEW in 2024 The Legacy Real Estate Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant and lasting impact on the real estate industry through innovation, mentorship, and dedication. This prestigious award celebrates those whose contributions have shaped real estate professionals, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and influence future generations. A mentor’s legacy is not just about the immediate guidance they provide, but the lasting effect it has on their mentee’s development and future decisions. By mentoring others, this person contributed to the growth of future leaders within Real Estate, thus building a legacy.
Bob Maves, 2024 Legacy Award Winner
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award celebrates a REALTOR® who has made a notable impact on the industry at the beginning of their career. This award aims to honor members of GRAR who exhibit exceptional promise, innovation, and leadership within their first five years of membership.
Eric Nestler, GRAR Rising Star 2024
