LIBOR Celebrates 2026 Recipients of the YPN 20 Rising Stars in Real Estate Awards

Long Island Board of REALTORS® (LIBOR) proudly celebrated the recipients of the 2026 Young Professionals Network (YPN) 20 Rising Stars in Real Estate Awards on July 15, 2026, at the iconic Oheka Castle in Huntington, N.Y. The elegant evening brought together past honorees, industry leaders, guests, and members of the REALTOR® community to recognize a new class of rising professionals who are helping shape the future of real estate on Long Island.

Since 2011, LIBOR's YPN 20 Rising Stars in Real Estate Awards have recognized exceptional early-career REALTORS® who distinguish themselves through professional excellence, leadership, innovation, community involvement, and a commitment to continued professional growth. More than an award recognizing sales success, the program honors REALTORS® who are making a meaningful impact today while helping lead the profession into the future.

"This year's Rising Stars exemplify the passion, professionalism, and leadership that strengthen our industry every day," said Shaan Khan, 2026 LIBOR President. "They have already made significant contributions to their clients, their communities, and the real estate profession, and we are proud to celebrate their accomplishments while looking forward to all they will continue to achieve."

The evening featured welcoming remarks from 2026 LIBOR YPN Committee Chair Richie Krug Jr., an inspirational message from 2026 LIBOR President-Elect Yvette Clark Watkins, and remarks from 2026 LIBOR President Shaan Khan, LIBOR CEO Doreen Spagnuolo, 2026 New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR) President Ron Garafalo, and 2026 NYSAR YPN Committee Chair Peter Demidovich. Connor Nolan, a member of the LIBOR YPN Committee, led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance before the awards presentation by Richie Krug Jr. and 2026 LIBOR YPN Committee Vice Chair Rebecca Bates.

The 2026 YPN 20 Rising Stars in Real Estate are:

"The Young Professionals Network is about much more than recognizing achievement—it is about cultivating the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of organized real estate," said Doreen Spagnuolo, CEO of LIBOR. "These honorees have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving their clients with integrity, embracing innovation, giving back to their communities, and continually investing in their professional growth. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and excited to see the lasting impact they will have on our industry."

As a special tribute, LIBOR registered a star in honor of each 2026 Rising Star recipient as a lasting reminder to never stop reaching for the stars. Each honoree received a personalized certificate documenting their star's official registration in The Star Register, a global database of named stars. LIBOR selected rare circumpolar stars, stars that never dip below the horizon, symbolizing the enduring impact these emerging leaders will have on the real estate profession and the bright future that lies ahead.

In addition to honoring the Rising Stars, the evening recognized three individuals whose dedication and mentorship have made a lasting impact on LIBOR's young professionals. Paige Ryan received the Heart & Soul Award, Eyston Perez was presented with the Visionary Award, and George Gatt was honored with the Rookie of the Year Award for their unwavering support and commitment to developing the next generation of real estate leaders.

The gala was made possible through the generous support of 2026 YPN Visionary Sponsor Mid-Island Mortgage Corp. and LIBOR's 2026 Platinum Sponsor OneKey® MLS.

LIBOR's Young Professionals Network, a division of the National Association of REALTORS®, provides new and emerging real estate professionals with networking opportunities, leadership development, educational resources, and community engagement that help them build successful careers while strengthening the REALTOR® organization.

Meet the Class of 2026 YPN 20 Rising Stars in Real Estate here.