Congratulations to the 2025 REALTOR® Award winners! These individuals, who were honored during our 142nd Inaugural Gala on September 26th, are making a difference in our industry and communities every day and were nominated for these awards by those who know them best—their colleagues and their peers. Find out how these award recipients are making Chicago a vibrant place to live, work and play below.
Jump to the award recipient’s bio below:
- REALTOR® of the Year: Drussy Hernandez, Coldwell Banker Realty
- CommercialForum Achievement Award: Myra Nimchaiyong, CENTURY 21 S.G.R.
- REALTOR® Community Service Award: Travis Williams, A.R.E. Partners
- Affiliate of the Year Award: Robert Gill, Chase
- Managing Broker of the Year (1-50 Licensees): Matt Farrell, Corcoran Urban Real Estate
- Managing Broker of the Year (51+ Licensees): Nate Thompson, Keller Williams ONEChicago
- Industry Partner Member Award: Ainhoa Garcia Jimenez, Realty of America LLC
- Political Advocacy Award: Mike McElroy, Kale Realty
- Rising Star Award: Keisha Williams, Fulton Grace Realty
REALTOR® of the Year: Drussy Hernandez, Coldwell Banker Realty
The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest and most coveted award that can be bestowed by one’s peers. This award is based on the outstanding contributions of a REALTOR® to the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. The recipient must demonstrate what is called “REALTOR® Spirit”, which is embodied by faithfulness to the principles of the REALTOR® organization, professionalism, the Code of Ethics and demonstrated leadership contributions that have significantly impacted the advancement and/or recognition of the profession.
Drussy Hernandez believes real estate is more than a profession—it’s a calling to serve others. With over 30 years in the industry, she has built a legacy defined by mentorship, advocacy and heart. Drussy began her career not in sales but in service—working in child welfare and social work before transitioning into real estate. That foundation shaped her belief that listening with empathy and leading with integrity are the true markers of success.
In 2024, Drussy brought this people-first mindset to her role as President of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, where she championed inclusivity, agent development and community connection. Under her leadership, the association deepened its commitment to education, mentorship and empowering members. Her influence extended well beyond our association, with active involvement in Illinois REALTORS®, the National Association of REALTORS® and other industry partner groups.
Drussy is a past recipient of our Managing Broker of the Year Award and a proud RPAC Major Investor. She continues to advocate for professionalism, private property rights and opportunity within the real estate industry. Throughout her career, she has guided countless agents with wisdom and care, helping them build careers grounded in ethics, knowledge and purpose.
Drussy brings energy and warmth to everything she does. Whether she’s cheering on a new agent, speaking to elected officials or sharing lessons from the field, her REALTOR® Spirit is unmistakable.
This recognition celebrates not just her remarkable achievements—but the inspiration and example she provides to REALTORS® across Chicagoland and beyond.
CommercialForum Achievement Award: Myra Nimchaiyong, CENTURY 21 S.G.R.
The CommercialForum Achievement Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a Chicago Association of REALTORS® CommercialForum member who demonstrates positive leadership within their local association and a strong commitment to the advancement of the commercial real estate industry.
A dedicated commercial real estate professional, Myra Nimchaiyong has spent over two decades shaping and strengthening Chicago’s commercial real estate landscape as a volunteer. An active CommercialForum Committee member since 2015, she is a committed advocate, mentor and industry leader. She serves as 2025 President of the Northern Illinois Commercial Association of REALTORS® and holds roles with Illinois REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®, where she champions policies that support commercial practitioners. A Leadership Accelerator graduate and longtime association volunteer, Myra’s service reflects a deep commitment to creating opportunities and opening doors for others. Her contributions exemplify the passion, leadership and impact that this award recognizes.
REALTOR® Community Service Award: Travis Williams, A.R.E. Partners
The REALTOR® Community Service Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a REALTOR® who has gone above and beyond in their local community.
A passionate advocate for equity, access and neighborhood pride, Travis Williams has dedicated his career and volunteerism to building a better Chicago. As President of the Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference, he leads initiatives that foster connection, support local schools and promote inclusive housing. From organizing community forums to championing affordability and economic development, Travis works across sectors to uplift residents and amplify their voices. His leadership extends to local parades, summer concerts, senior housing plans and small business engagement. Through every effort, Travis showcases the power REALTORS® have to drive lasting, community-centered change.
Affiliate of the Year Award: Robert Gill, Chase
The Affiliate of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a Chicago Association of REALTORS® Affiliate Member to the Chicagoland real estate industry.
With over 15 years of experience in home lending, Robert Gill is a trusted partner to homebuyers and REALTORS® across Chicagoland. Known for his dedication, integrity and personalized guidance, he supports clients through every step of the mortgage process. A passionate advocate for the industry, Robert has been an active volunteer and leader within the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, most recently serving as co-chair of the 2025 Golf Outing Advisory Group. His commitment to mentorship, service and excellence in lending exemplifies what it means to be an Affiliate of the Year.
Chase Moore, Chase, accepted the award on Gill’s behalf.
Managing Broker of the Year (1-50 Licensees): Matt Farrell, Corcoran Urban Real Estate
The Managing Broker of the Year Award (1-50 licensees) recognizes a Chicago REALTOR® who has gone above and beyond their day-to-day obligations within their brokerage, such as outstanding service to clients and licensees within the brokerage, mentorship, innovative training programs and more.
A technology visionary and industry trailblazer, Matt Farrell brings over 20 years of leadership, mentorship and service to Chicago real estate. As managing broker and founding partner of Corcoran Urban Real Estate, Matt has developed innovative tools that empower agents and elevate the client experience. A former association President and REALTOR® of the Year, Matt continues to serve on key committees and as Federal Political Coordinator to Senator Dick Durbin. His commitment to ethics, education and agent development characterizes his brokerage philosophy. Matt’s leadership is defined by intentionality, innovation and excellence.
Managing Broker of the Year (51+ Licensees): Nate Thompson, Keller Williams ONEChicago
The Managing Broker of the Year Award (51+ licensees) recognizes a Chicago REALTOR® who has gone above and beyond their day-to-day obligations within their brokerage, such as outstanding service to clients and licensees within the brokerage, mentorship, innovative training programs and more.
As Designated Managing Broker and Chief Experience Officer at Keller Williams ONEChicago, Nate Thompson leads with passion, innovation and a deep commitment to agent success. With over a decade of experience and more than 400 agents under his guidance, Nate is known for his mentorship, strategic leadership and dedication to raising industry standards. He blends business acumen with community impact, fostering a culture of excellence, service and growth. A former radio personality turned real estate leader, Nate brings energy and vision to everything he does. His focus on empowering agents through professional development has made him a respected force in the industry.
Industry Partner Member Award: Ainhoa Garcia Jimenez, Realty of America LLC
The Industry Partner Member Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of an Industry Partner member within their industry partner organization, and to the Chicagoland real estate industry.
Ainhoa Garcia Jimenez is a top-producing REALTOR®, mentor and trailblazer whose passion for education and advocacy has shaped her career and community impact. Ainhoa served as the youngest female President of The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Chicago, where she championed homeownership and representation within the Latino community. Ainhoa blends expertise with empathy to guide clients and empower peers. A published author and sought-after speaker, Ainhoa continues to uplift others through mentorship and leadership roles. Her unwavering commitment to service, excellence and representation makes her a standout industry partner and change-maker in Chicagoland real estate.
Political Advocacy Award: Mike McElroy, Kale Realty
The Political Advocacy Award is based on the outstanding contributions of a Chicago REALTOR® or affiliate member in the public policy, political and/or legislative advocacy area who demonstrated extraordinary volunteerism and/or service in governmental affairs and in keeping with the REALTOR® Party spirit to “Vote…Act…Invest.”
A dedicated advocate and RPAC Major Investor, Mike McElroy has spent over a decade advancing REALTOR® priorities at every level of government. As our incoming Chair of the Public Policy Coordinating Committee and a member of Illinois REALTORS® Local Governmental Affairs Committee, Mike plays a hands-on role in shaping policy. From advocating against the 606 Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act and Bring Chicago Home proposals to meeting directly with lawmakers, his strategic leadership has led to real legislative wins. A fixture at Capitol Conference and local advocacy events, Mike champions housing accessibility, zoning reform and smart policy that supports property rights and community growth.
Rising Star Award: Keisha Williams, Kale Realty
The Rising Star Award recognizes an emerging leader within the Chicago Association of REALTORS® whose early accomplishments distinguish them as a future leader in the industry and beyond through their service, commitment, leadership, responsibility and impact.
Keisha Williams is a rising force in Chicago real estate whose passion, purpose and leadership shine through everything she does. A REALTOR® with over 25 years of combined mortgage and real estate experience, Keisha brings a unique perspective and unwavering dedication to her clients and peers. Since stepping into leadership roles with the association and as the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Chicago’s 2025 president, she has quickly emerged as a trusted voice and inspiring advocate. A graduate of our Leadership Accelerator and the 2024 National Women’s Council of REALTORS® Leadership Institute, Keisha is committed to fostering inclusion, connection and innovation across the industry she proudly serves.
