Real Awards 01_30_2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

JANUARY 28, 2026

STUART RICHNER CEO & Publisher RICHNER COMMUNICATIONS

2026 AWARD WINNERS

Dear Long Islander,

The Heritage Club at Bethpage was abuzz with conversation and celebration on Wednesday, January 28, as RichnerLIVE welcomed guests to the Herald’s Fifth-Annual Real Estate Achievement and Leadership (R.E.A.L.) Awards Gala. More than 250 attendees joined us for an evening honoring 30 of Long Island’s most accomplished real estate professionals and leaders whose vision and innovation continue to shape the communities we live in.

At Herald Community Media, we see ﬁrsthand the critical role the real estate industry plays in building vibrant, connected communities. The achievements celebrated at this year’s gala reinforce an important truth: real estate excellence is not just about structures, but also about creating places where people can thrive, connect, and grow. These are the stories the Herald is proud to share with our readers every day.

The gala's speaker and honoree —Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Founder & Owner, Kelly Killoren Bensimon Inc. and Broker Specialist at Douglas Elliman —captured the spirit of the evening with thoughtful and inspiring remarks. Five-time Emmy-Award-winning investigative reporter Kristin Thorne guided the celebration with wit and warmth as the evening's Emcee.

Our sincere thanks goes out to our major sponsors—Douglas Elliman, B2K Development, Greiner-Maltz Real Estate, Kulka Group, Vitale Properties, Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP, NYSpace Finders, DGNY Commercial, R&M Engineering, Interior Motives, and Ackman Ziﬀ Real Estate Group—whose support made the event possible.

Reflecting the spirit of the evening, a portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit Building Homes for Heroes, an organization dedicated to restoring hope for injured veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders. To learn more, visit buildinghomesforheroes.org.

We look forward to continuing the work we started in 1964 of informing and uplifting Long Island communities and all who live and work here.

Sincerely,

CEO & Publisher Herald Community Media

TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS

STRATEGIC VISIONARY IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

KELLY KILLOREN BENSIMON Founder & Owner

KELLY KILLOREN BENSIMON INC., Broker Specialist

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

Kelly Killoren Bensimon is a Rockford, Ill.–born model, author, television personality, and top-producing real estate broker. She began modeling early, appearing in Elle, Shape, Playboy, and international fashion publications. A graduate of Trinity College, she earned a B.A. from Columbia University and an MBA from Northeastern University, with further executive study at NYU Stern in real estate and fashion. Kelly is the author of seven books, including The Bikini Book and American Style, and held editorial roles at Gotham and Elle Accessories. She starred on The Real Housewives of New York and returned to television in Ultimate Girls Trip. A co-host of iHeartRadio’s IDO PART2, she is also a leading broker at Douglas Elliman with over $100M in annual sales. A New York City resident. she is a brand ambassador, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

AWARDS

LEGACY IN REAL ESTATE

JAN BURMAN Chairman B2K DEVELOPMENT

With an award-winning reputation for business acumen and integrity, Jan Burman brings personal insight to B2K leadership, its real estate portfolio, and various real estate related businesses. His vast experience and unique insight allow him to spot hidden opportunities, niche demands within the marketplace, and keenly anticipate market trends that may otherwise go unseen.

This perception has paid oﬀ by creating tremendous value for partners and stakeholders in the form of adaptive reuses of underutilized properties, outstanding developments, diverse communities, and vast portfolios. Jan has been recognized as Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, was inducted into the Long Island Business News Hall of Fame, and was a founding member of the Association for a Better Long Island.

REAL ESTATE VISIONARY OF THE YEAR

STEVEN KRIEGER Chief Executive Ofﬁcer B2K DEVELOPMENT

As one of the founding partners of B2K Development, Steven Krieger has been a leader and an integral part of building the communities, the brands and the relationships for which the company is so well-known. With over 30 years of industry experience, he brings insight and proven expertise to identify viable opportunities and create value.

Some of his most signiﬁcant accomplishments include obtaining the ﬁrst IDA approval for an assisted living community in New York, procuring the land use approvals and entitlements for over 7,000 units, and closing over $3 billion in transactions. Steven graduated cum laude from Tulane University and earned his law degree at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University..

Q&A

Q: What has been your greatest achievement in the past year?

A: My greatest achievement has been being strategic and focusing on the best price based on each property’s value for my clients, without being swayed by others’ opinions. This approach has helped secure proper valuations and elevate the overall status of buildings and properties.

Q: Who inspired you to be on the path you are on today?

A: I have had many incredible mentors who have oﬀered guidance, but my father’s attention to transactional details and my mother’s keen eye for aesthetics have been my true north stars. overall status of buildings and properties.

Leadership is the ability to translate vision into reality. At B2K Development, our forward-thinking approach has been instrumental in transforming the region’s landscape. For over two decades, the principals have delivered 10+ million square feet of diversiﬁed properties and over 7,000+ multi-family units, creating thousands of jobs and building exceptional communities and bold ventures that enhance lives and strengthen neighborhoods.

We are actively seeking acquisition opportunities to unlock your property’s full potential. B2K Construction offers third party general contracting to bring your vision to life.

ASHLEY INFANTINO

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

DESIMONE REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Ashley Infantino is a dedicated real estate professional who leads with integrity, care, and a genuine passion for helping others. At the core of Ashley’s work is one simple goal: to make people happy by guiding them through one of the most meaningful moments of their lives with conﬁdence, clarity and ease.

Family is incredibly important to Ashley, and she brings that same sense of commitment and loyalty into every client relationship. Outside of real estate, she values quality time with her husband and is deeply committed to deepening her Pilates practice — an outlet that reﬂects her focus on balance, discipline and personal growth.

Ashley is known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail and clear communication. She takes the time to truly understand her clients’ needs, whether they are purchasing their ﬁrst home, selling a property, or making a strategic move, and she remains hands-on and responsive throughout the entire process.

Backed by a collaborative, high-performing office, Ashley combines modern marketing, market knowledge, and a people-first approach to deliver a smooth and positive experience from start to finish. Her clients appreciate her honesty, reliability, and the genuine care she brings to every transaction.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

JAMES

LA DOLCE Vice President, Branch Manager

FLUSHING BANK

James LaDolce is a Vice President and Branch Manager at Flushing Bank, overseeing the bank’s newest Melville location at 555 Broadhollow Road. James brings extensive experience in retail and commercial banking, customer service, and relationship management.

Before joining Flushing Bank, James held leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Investors Bank, where he built a strong track record of driving branch performance, developing client relationships, and delivering tailored ﬁnancial solutions to individuals and businesses. His professional expertise includes business development, cross-selling, and team leadership.

James earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Farmingdale State College and remains committed to serving the Long Island community. In his role at the Melville branch, he is focused on introducing Flushing Bank’s comprehensive services, fostering long-term partnerships, and supporting the ﬁnancial success of local residents and businesses. James and his team look forward to becoming a trusted presence in the Melville community.

Q&A

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: My greatest achievement in the last year has been the opening of our Melville Branch. The team here has done an incredible job growing the branch deposit base and spreading brand awareness in the surrounding areas.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: My parents have always been the inspiration behind my work ethic. They both were great examples of what it means to work hard and never give up. They always taught me that life is a journey and not a race.

CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

JONATHAN M. STERN

Chief Growth Ofﬁcer

ACKMAN-ZIFF REAL ESTATE GROUP

Jonathan M. Stern joined Ackman-Ziﬀ as the company’s Chief Growth Oﬃcer in 2024. In this role he works with other members of senior leadership to set and execute business development strategy and is involved in the management of the company’s origination and execution teams.

For 13 years, from 2001 until 2023, Jonathan led marketing and business development at the nation’s largest private ﬁnance intermediary where he helped grow sales from $4.6 billion to $58 billion. He also managed the launches of the company’s investment sales and retail leasing divisions, as well as two aﬃliated agency lending platforms.

Over the course of his career, Jonathan has originated and closed over $1.4 billion in debt and equity capital assignments.

Previously Jonathan worked in capital raising and investor relations at JER Partners; he began his career at Citigroup with roles in the Investment Bank and at The Citigroup Private Bank.

Q&A

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: 2026 marks our ﬁrm's 100th year in business. The success we enjoyed in 2025 is indicative of the type of teamwork and relationship-oriented culture that has sustained us and our clients for the past century. Our people, and the positive outcomes they generate on behalf of our clients, are our greatest achievements.

LEADERSHIP IN ADVISORY

LONG ISLAND

Newmark is a leading full-service commercial real estate advisory ﬁrm, recognized for its market intelligence, executional excellence and enduring client partnerships.

On Long Island, Newmark has built one of the region’s most respected brokerage platforms, anchored by deep local expertise and the strength of the ﬁrm’s leadership. Founded in 2000, the oﬃce is led by SIORdesignated real estate expert Charles V. Tabone and has grown through the strategic addition of top professionals and a steadfast focus on delivering results across its tenant representation, owner representation and investment sales practices.

As Newmark’s Tri-State Region Market Leader Sean Moynihan recently noted while marking the office’s milestone anniversary, the Long Island office reflects “25 years of impact, relationships and shared success,” underscoring both the depth of its legacy and the momentum ahead.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

COMMERCIAL AWARDS

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

JOEL

LIPSKY Chief Executive Ofﬁcer LIPSKY CONSTRUCTION

Joel Lipsky is Co-owner and CEO of Lipsky Construction. Lipsky graduated from the University of North Florida with a degree in construction management. Post-graduation, he worked for large-scale construction companies, including Turner Construction, the Haskell Group and Elkins Construction, and the U.S. Department of Defense as a private contractor before moving back to New York to join his family’s general contracting ﬁrm.

In 2022, Joel embarked on an exciting journey alongside his brother and business partner Alex, as they assumed leadership of the family construction company. Together, they transformed the business into a thriving commercial general contracting and construction management ﬁrm.

Active in the professional community, Joel sits on the board of directors for the Associated General Contractors of New York State and has recently provided expert testimony to the U.S. House of Representatives on challenges facing small business contracting. He is also committee chair to the Next Generation Construction Council and is committed to empowering emerging construction professionals through his guidance and mentorship.

INDUSTRY IMPACT AND LEADERSHIP

JEFF SCHWARTZBERG, MBA Managing Principal PREMIER COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE, LLC

Jeﬀ Schwartzberg, Co-Founder and Managing Principal at Premier Commercial Real Estate leads its’ day-to-day business operations. He is widely recognized in the industry as one of Long Island’s Top commercial real estate professionals.

Before becoming a full time Broker, Jeﬀ enjoyed a successful 20-year career, holding several key “senior executive” positions with Lockheed Martin Corporation.

During his 25 year career in Commercial Real Estate, Jeff has been recognized with the industry’s top awards including “Lifetime Achievement,” ”Top Business Leader,” “Top Business Influencers”. Jeff is also a past President in the Commercial Industrial Brokers Society of LI. Community-minded, Jeff served three terms as Mayor of Roslyn Estates and served for two decades on the Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island, including several terms as Board Chairperson.

Jeﬀ is honored and proud to be a product of The Bronx. Today, Jeﬀ lives on the water in Massapequa and is self-described as a “Corvette Guy.”

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: Our father, Barry Lipsky, has always been our biggest supporter and mentor. His belief in us from the very beginning gave us the conﬁdence to pursue what we’re building today. Along the way, we’ve also been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors, coaches, and advisors who have helped guide us and sharpen our vision.

KEITH P. BROWN Partner

CERTILMAN BALIN ADLER & HYMAN LLP

Keith Brown is a Partner in Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP’s Real Estate and Land Use & Zoning Practice Groups. He focuses on advising corporate clients on complex real estate matters, including commercial real estate litigation, zoning and land use, real estate development, and environmental compliance. He has signiﬁcant experience working across the tri-state area and is known for providing strategic counsel on high-proﬁle development projects and complex regulatory issues.

Keith works with a broad range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies and national retailers to banks, renewable energy developers, and local businesses. His legal expertise has made him a trusted advisor on major commercial real estate transactions, litigation, and the negotiation of key business agreements.

Some of his notable work includes leading entitlement efforts for Long Island’s first Wegmans supermarket, managing the redevelopment of the former Newsday facility for one of the nation’s largest industrial warehouse owners, and securing approvals for critical energy infrastructure projects, such as deploying fuel cells for Stop & Shop Supermarkets. He also spearheaded Long Island’s first battery storage project in Southampton. Keith has extensive experience representing clients in multimillion-dollar litigation and negotiating large-scale commercial contracts.

A thought leader in land use and sustainability, he is the Founder and Co-Chair of the Touro Law Center Institute of Land Use & Sustainable Development. He is also an active member of various legal organizations, including the American Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association, and is admitted to practice in New York, Connecticut and several federal courts.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

COMMERCIAL AWARDS

ROBERT M. CONNELLY Attorney ROMER DEBBAS, LLP

With nearly 20 years of experience in real estate, land use, and municipal law, Robert Connelly has built a distinguished legal career on the East End of Long Island and beyond. Now a partner at Romer Debbas LLP, he advises on real estate transactions, zoning, permitting, and contract negotiations from Manhattan to Montauk.

After graduating cum laude from Hofstra Law in 2005, he served as an Assistant District Attorney in Suﬀolk County, earning the Outstanding Prosecutor Award in 2009. He later became an Assistant Town Attorney for East Hampton, working closely with land use boards and prosecuting Town Code violations. In 2023, he was appointed East Hampton Town Attorney, leading litigation, land use matters and government aﬀairs. Today, he provides trusted counsel to buyers, sellers, developers, and business owners, leveraging deep knowledge of the East End real estate market.

MICHAEL TUCKER

Associate Broker

DGNY COMMERCIAL

Michael Tucker is a seasoned Associate Real Estate Broker at DGNY Commercial, LLC, based in Melville. Michael has extensive experience in commercial real estate, specializing in tenant and landlord representation, as well as real estate investments. His expertise spans various property types, including industrial, land, oﬃce, retail, and multi-family properties.

Michael is a Board Member of the Regional Economic Development Council of Long Island (REDCLI), where he contributes to the development of regional strategies that promote industry growth, innovation, and investment. He participates on the committee for Empire State Development (ESD) –Tradeable Sectors Work Group and co-chairs the Natural Assets and Tourism Work Group. Michael serves as President of the Long Island Food Council (dba NY Food Council), a leading organization supporting and scaling the food and beverage industry across Long Island. Michael's leadership roles extend to community involvement, as he is a board member of the Port Washington Business Improvement District. He is also a Taste of Harvest committee member supporting Island Harvest’s work with food insecurity.

Q&A

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: This year I joined Romer Debbas LLP as a partner and took on the responsibility of leading our East End practice. Building that practice has been a signiﬁcant milestone that both advances the ﬁrm’s reach and strengthens service to clients across the East End.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: I was inspired by my father, whose relentless work ethic and quiet integrity left a lasting impression on me. His example taught me that meaningful work is built not just on skill, but on character — and that perspective shaped the path I chose.

Michael is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Alum. Throughout his career, Michael has received the Power Broker and Rechler Equities Flex Deal of the Year award. His comprehensive market knowledge, combined with a client-centric approach, ensures that he consistently delivers optimal outcomes for his clients in the dynamic New York commercial real estate market.

REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

ROB MANNINO

Chief Operating Ofﬁcer THE KULKA GROUP

Rob Mannino is Partner and Chief Operating Oﬃcer of The Kulka Group, where he plays a central role in overseeing construction and development projects across Long Island. With deep expertise in commercial development, operations and project execution, Rob leads teams to deliver projects on time and on budget and create long-term value for clients and communities.

In addition to his leadership within real estate, Rob is deeply committed to community impact. He has leveraged his professional platform to lead philanthropic initiatives raising over $2 million for cancer research and patient care, including award-winning fundraising eﬀorts for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Rob is widely recognized for his executive leadership, community engagement, and ability to integrate business success with meaningful social impact

2026 AWARD WINNERS

DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION

JOSEPH PICATAGGI JR.

Principal

TERRA CONSTRUCTION GROUP

Joe Picataggi Jr is a Principal of Terra Construction Group and serves as President of Development, where he leads the ﬁrm’s real estate development platform and long-term growth initiatives across Long Island and the greater New York market.

With deep experience in ground-up residential development and custom home construction, Joe oversees projects from initial land acquisition and entitlement through design, construction, and ﬁnal delivery.

Since founding Terra Construction Group in 2020, Joe has led the successful completion of over 60 homes, spanning luxury custom residences and multi-lot residential developments. Under his leadership, Terra has established a robust pipeline of more than 100 homes currently in various stages of planning, construction, and development, positioning Terra for sustained growth.

Prior to founding Terra, Joe was a Development Transaction Manager for The Vorea Group. While at Vorea, Joe was involved in managing over 750,000 SF in development transactions, including ground-up residential projects in Gowanus Brooklyn and Huntsville Alabama, as well as multiple commercial developments and repositioning’s.

Joe graduated Summa Cum Laude from New York University with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Real Estate.

MATTHEW K. AYLWARD, PE Partner R&M

ENGINEERING

Matthew Aylward is a Partner at R&M Engineering, a versatile Civil Engineering firm based in Huntington. Established in 1999, R&M focuses on providing personalized service to clients. Over the past 25 years, R&M has grown to over 40 employees, serving the Long Island and New York City markets. R&M Engineering offers comprehensive solutions and engineering in the fields of Land Development, Land Use Planning, Waterfront Engineering, Transportation Engineering, and Wastewater Treatment.

Matthew resides in Farmingville with his wife Christine and their three children, Mason, Charlotte and Nolan.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: My biggest inspiration has always been my father, Joe Picataggi Sr. He’s been an entrepreneur his entire life, and watching his work ethic, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit shaped the path I’m on today. I’m fortunate to now call him my partner, and his example continues to guide how I build, lead and grow.

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: Raising amazing kids with my wife, who will be well prepared for the future.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: My wife, Christine. She encouraged me to achieve my potential through unwavering belief in my ability to be a professional engineer.

Q: If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?

A: Farming

Congratulations to TOM ATTIVISSIMO

CEO & Principal of Greiner-Matlz Co. of Long Island, LLC for being recognized Top Industrial And Investment Sales And Leasing Counselor Of The Year at the Herald Real Estate Achievement & Leadership Awards

INNOVATION IN CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN

GINA FARESE

Chief Executive Ofﬁcer

MARCOR SOLAR

MARCOR CONSTRUCTION

Gina Farese is the CEO of Marcor Construction, Marcor Solar, and MGM Construction Services, and a recognized innovator in the construction and renewable energy industries. A driven leader from an early age, Gina earned her ﬁnance degree by 19 before returning to her family’s rooﬁng business, where she helped modernize operations and ultimately launched Marcor Solar. She continues to deepen her expertise by pursuing a Master’s in Construction Management, ensuring her companies stay ahead of evolving industry standards and best practices.

A trusted partner in real estate, Gina works closely with investors and house flippers to manage complex construction projects and protect profitability. As a certified Continuing Education instructor, she educates realtors on solar and roofing, and she created the Solar Roof Check program to simplify solar and roof inspections during home transactions, helping buyers and sellers achieve smoother closings. Gina’s commitment to education and community is reflected in her appointment to the Board of Visitors at Sacred Heart University, the establishment of a scholarship fund at her alma mater, and her service on multiple industry and consumer affairs boards. A licensed public adjuster and dedicated philanthropist, she raised over $100,000 for Long Island Fight for Charity in 2023 and has been named one of Long Island’s Top 50 Women in Business, all while remaining a devoted wife and mother of two.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

INTERIOR DESIGN

SUSAN MANDEL Founder and Principal Designer INTERIOR MOTIVES NEW YORK, INC.

Susan Mandel has been honing her design instincts since childhood — long before she knew they could become a career. From painting 3D wall murals and faux ﬁnishes to sewing, embroidering, and hand-painting custom pieces, she has always brought her vision to life. If she couldn’t ﬁnd what she imagined, she created it.

At just eight-years-old, Susan enrolled in adult art classes at Brooklyn College. By 13, she had designed her own French Country bedroom, complete with custom bedding, window treatments, and curated paint selections. She reinvented her space repeatedly, driven by a love of creating beautiful, highly personal environments.

Today, Susan is the award-winning founder of Interior Motives New York, a boutique ﬁrm specializing in "interior design with a pulse." Her work balances beauty, function, and emotion, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and fullhome transformations for busy professionals, families, and developers.

In 2025, Susan received national recognition from KraftMaid Cabinetry, winning both Kitchen of the Year and the Outstanding New Designer Award. Her portfolio also includes a high-proﬁle model residence for RXR’s The Beacon at Garvies Point, which was featured in Newsday and Safavieh Living

Drawing on a prior career in advertising and marketing, Susan brings a strategic, clientfocused approach to every project. She is known for her encyclopedic knowledge of fabrics and ﬁnishes and her uncanny ability to instantly envision a space’s potential. Whether designing a custom residence or a developer model, Susan creates elevated, intentional environments that feel deeply personal.

SHALOM

MAIDENBAUM Owner & Founder

MAIDENBAUM PROPERTY TAX REDUCTION GROUP, LLC

Shalom S. Maidenbaum Esq. is the founding member of Maidenbaum Property Tax Reduction Group, LLC, the largest property tax company exclusively dedicated to Nassau County homeowners.

Originally a commercial litigator, Shalom transitioned to taxpayer advocacy. For over 35 years,Shalom and his team have been successfully representing homeowners to maintain fair assessments of their properties. What began as a team with less than a handful of employees, now employees a staﬀ of over 55 people and continues to grow.

Shalom has always been a steadfast believer in family and community. Born and raised in Nassau County, Shalom is particularly invested in the company’s charitable giving and servicing the community he calls home. Shalom and his wife to this day still reside in Nassau County, where they have raised their four children, some of whom also reside in Nassau with their families. He is always working to further the company’s motto of “From the Community. For the Community.” Giving back is his ultimate privilege.

A graduate of Benjamin N. Cardozo Law School and NYU's Business School, Shalom's vision and passion for helping residents navigate the complexities of the tax grievance process have made his company the leading residential tax reduction company in Nassau County.

REAL ESTATE BROKER

NICHOLAS SFORZA

Licensed Real Estate Broker

MANHASSET REALTY GROUP

Nicholas Sforza is the Owner-Broker of the Manhasset Realty Group, a full-service real estate brokerage serving clients throughout Long Island and Queens. The ﬁrm specializes in residential real estate, including single-family homes, condominiums, cooperatives, and small investment properties, with particular expertise in estate sales, downsizing, and relocations.

In addition to leading his real estate company for more than 25 years, Nicholas has built a distinguished career in education spanning three decades. He has served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and is currently in his sixth year as an elementary school principal in Queens. As he looks ahead to retiring from the education ﬁeld, he plans to focus even more fully on the continued growth of his real estate business.

Beyond his professional roles, Mr. Sforza is a strong advocate for programs that support students and young adults with special needs. He has coordinated successful fundraising initiatives for Manhasset PASE and remains committed to making a meaningful impact within the community and school district.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

MARISA FILARDO

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

Marisa is a top-producing, licensed real estate agent with a proven track record of delivering exceptional results across Long Island and the surrounding boroughs. With years of experience, she expertly represents everyone from ﬁrst-time homebuyers to luxury sellers, combining strategic marketing, sharp negotiation skill and unwavering client advocacy.

A lifelong Long Island resident, Marisa oﬀers deep local market knowledge that gives her clients a distinct competitive advantage. Her background as a local business owner and former high school economics teacher has shaped her into a highly organized, data-driven professional who communicates clearly, solves problems quickly, and keeps every transaction on track.

Consistently ranked among the industry’s best, she’s a Top 20 Agent company-wide across Long Island and Queens, and a LIBOR YPN 40 Under 40 honoree. Known for her tenacity, market expertise, and results-driven approach, Marisa is a trusted advisor clients rely on to make conﬁdent real estate decisions from start to ﬁnish.

RACHEL KING

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Team Leader THE KING TEAM AT SERHANT.

Rachel King is a founding agent of SERHANT and a member of Ryan Serhant’s original team, now one of the most prominent real estate brokerages in the nation. Ranked in the top 1% of real estate agents nationwide by WSJ Real Trends, Rachel brings over a decade of experience and a strategic, datadriven approach to luxury sales and new development.

Before entering real estate, Rachel worked on the trading ﬂoors at Lehman Brothers and Barclays Capital, shaping her analytical approach to business and negotiation. She went on to build a successful bi-coastal practice across New York and Silicon Valley. After establishing her bi-coastal business, Rachel spearheaded SERHANT’s Long Island expansion and leads The King Team, a women-led team specializing in luxury homes and new development. She also serves as a real estate coach with Sell It, helping agents scale their businesses with intention. Rachel has participated as a speaker and panelist for Inman and has been featured on Million Dollar Listing New York and Netﬂix’s Owning Manhattan, and in print publications including Forbes and The Wall Street Journal, A wife and mother of three boys, Rachel lives in Manhasset and is deeply connected to the community she serves.

Q&A

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: My real estate company had a record year in 2025 and we're looking for an even better one in 2026.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: My wife and four children are my constant inspiration.

A: I’m most proud of my consistency. Showing up every day, staying disciplined, and doing the work even when it wasn’t glamorous is what allowed me to reach my goals this year. Real estate is about momentum and trust, and consistency is what builds both. I didn’t rely on shortcuts or one big win, I focused on steady eﬀort, strong client relationships, and doing the right things day in and day out. That consistency is what delivered real results, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: Two people shaped my career path: Ryan Serhant and Barbara Corcoran. Ryan opened doors at a pivotal moment and showed what’s possible through discipline and vision. Barbara, a powerful role model from my Wall Street days, inspired me to lead boldly and believe I could build an extraordinary career.

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

ROB MANNINO Chief Operating Ofﬁcer THE KULKA GROUP

2026 AWARD WINNERS

DELEVOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION

JOSEPH PICATAGGI JR.

Principal

TERRA CONSTRUCTION GROUP

Joe graduated Summa Cum Laude from New York University with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Real Estate.

MATTHEW K. ALYWARD, PE Partner R&M

ENGINEERING

Matthew resides in Farmingville with his wife Christine and their three children, Mason, Charlotte and Nolan.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: Raising amazing kids with my wife, who will be well prepared for the future.

Q: What/Who inspired you to be on the path you’re on today?

A: My wife, Christine. She encouraged me to achieve my potential through unwavering belief in my ability to be a professional engineer.

Q: If you weren’t in the industry you’re in now, where would you be?

A: Farming

EXCELLENCE IN REAL ESTATE LAW

MICHAEL S. ACKERMAN Managing Partner ACKERMAN LAW, PLLC

Ackerman Law was founded with a clear mission: to deliver the legal knowledge and expertise expected of a top real estate law ﬁrm while providing an elevated, client-focused service experience. Recognizing that buying and selling real estate can be complex and stressful, the ﬁrm is dedicated to simplifying the process and guiding clients with clarity and care at every step.

With more than 20 years of experience in real estate law, Michael Ackerman leads the fullservice ﬁrm alongside two highly experienced attorneys and a skilled team of paralegals and administrative professionals. Together, they provide comprehensive legal support across residential and commercial real estate matters.

Ackerman Law is deeply rooted in the Long Island community, actively supporting civic and charitable organizations. The ﬁrm is represented on the Board of Directors of the Syosset-Woodbury Chamber of Commerce and regularly organizes fundraising initiatives for the American Cancer Society and local food pantries.

A graduate of Hofstra Law, Michael Ackerman has earned wide recognition for his professional excellence. His honors include being named a Power Attorney and Power Professional by the Long Island Press in 2022, a Leader in Law by Long Island Business News in 2023, and the recipient of Avvo’s Client’s Choice Award seven times since 2017. He has also been named to Lawyers of Distinction for three consecutive years and received the Distinguished Attorney Award at the 2025 Gatsby Awards.

The ﬁrm has earned multiple accolades, including a Herald R.E.A.L. Award, Long Island Choice Award, and Best Real Estate Law Firm honors. Michael is also a frequent industry speaker and a certiﬁed New York State real estate instructor.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL AWARDS

JOHN VITALE

President

VITALE PROPERTIES

John Vitale is a successful real estate developer and the founding Partner of Vitale Properties, a ﬁrm that has shaped and supported the Island Park business community for more than 40 years. A graduate of St. John’s University, John ﬁrst built his reputation through iconic waterfront establishments that became community staples, including the legendary Paddy McGee's, Coyote Grill, and the Bridgeview Yacht Club — a premier catering venue he owned and operated for nearly three decades.

In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, John led a strategic shift toward resilient, future-focused commercial and residential development. This evolution began with the Barnum Landing shopping center, which brought the area’s ﬁrst supermarket, King Kullen, and continued with the award-winning multifamily community, The Channel Club.

John is currently developing The Bridgeview, a transit-oriented, 117-unit luxury waterfront community rising on the former site of his celebrated catering facility. In addition to these ﬂagship projects, he oversees a diverse real estate portfolio that includes Jordan Lobster Farm and a range of regional mixed-use assets. Through each endeavor, John continues to advance a legacy deﬁned by smart-growth planning, long-term community investment and thoughtful coastal development.

FATHER / SON DUO

DYLAN VITALE Vice President VITALE PROPERTIES

Dylan Vitale is a Partner at Vitale Properties and a graduate of UMass Amherst with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management. Based in Long Beach, Dylan works alongside his father, John Vitale, to lead the family’s legacy of community-focused development. Currently, Dylan is spearheading The Bridgeview, a 117-unit waterfront, transitoriented community on the former site of the family’s Bridgeview Yacht Club. This project recently earned a Long Island Business Development Council Recognition Award. The Vitale portfolio also includes The Channel Club — an award-winning 86-unit multifamily property — and the King Kullen-anchored Barnum Landing Shopping Center. In addition to their Island Park developments, the Vitale’s own diverse assets including Jordan Lobster Farm, a mixed-use asset in Greenport, and strategic properties throughout the Long Island area. A proud father of three, Dylan remains dedicated to supporting the Long Island business community through thoughtful, smart-growth real estate projects.

Q: What has been your greatest achievement(s) within the past year?

A: My biggest achievement this year was breaking ground on The Bridgeview, a 117-unit waterfront community developed from a property my family has owned for nearly 30 years. Working alongside my father, we’re honoring our history while meeting Long Island’s need for smart-growth housing and building a lasting legacy.

FATHER / SON DUO

NEXT GEN BROKERAGE

LUCA Di CIERO

Founder & CEO

NYSPACE FINDERS

Luca Di Ciero is the founder of NY Space Finders Inc., a New York–based commercial real estate ﬁrm known for driving aggressive growth strategies and securing high-impact oﬃce and retail spaces. He specializes in new construction and emerging markets, positioning brands and businesses where momentum is built.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL AWARDS

NEXT GEN BROKERAGE

GIUSEPPE GREGORIO

Associate Broker

NYSPACE FINDERS

Giuseppe Gregorio is an Associate Broker at NY Space Finders, leading the ﬁrm’s expansion into the Long Island real estate sector. With a strong command of both commercial and residential markets, he provides strategic guidance to owners, investors, and tenants across New York.

SHAAN KHAN

President

LONG ISLAND BOARD OF REALTORS®

Realtor Broker/Owner

RK REALTY GROUP

Shaan Khan is a New York State Licensed Real Estate Broker and owner of RK Realty Group, based in Melville.

As President of Long Island Board of REALTORS® (LIBOR), Shaan brings a leadership style focused on strong governance, collaboration, and promoting fairness. Since joining LIBOR’s Board of Directors in 2020, he has helped guide the organization forward, including facilitating the 2023–2024 Strategic Plan and chairing LIBOR’s Bylaws Committee. Shaan’s leadership has been recognized with LIBOR’s REALTOR® Salesperson of the Year Award and the Young Professionals Network “Visionary” Award. A Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Real Estate Instructor, he applies his experience to raise professional standards and ethical practices. As a Director of the National Association of REALTORS® and the New York State Association of REALTORS®, Shaan champions fair housing and works on housing finance policymaking to address affordability.

Before entering real estate, Shaan spent a decade in public service, including as Senior Advisor in the Manhattan Borough President’s Oﬃce. There, he spearheaded reforms to Manhattan’s 12 community boards and advanced major land use initiatives, bringing together community, business and elected leaders to shape the city’s skyline.

After living and working across Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Nassau County, Shaan calls Melville home.

DARAB LAWYER

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

VANESSA AMBROSECCHIA

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

Longtime Oceanside residents for more than 20 years, Darab and Vanessa share a strong commitment to family, community, charity and delivering exceptional service to every client they serve. Together, they bring more than two decades of combined experience and have successfully closed over $350 million in real estate transactions across New York City, Long Island and the Hamptons. Their diverse expertise includes luxury homes, commercial real estate, 1031 exchanges; they are also certiﬁed as Relocation Specialists.

Darab, Vanessa and their team can sell any property around the world, allowing them to conﬁdently guide buyers, sellers and investors through a wide range of market opportunities with powerhouse brokerage Douglas Elliman behind them. Known for their hands-on approach and client-ﬁrst philosophy, the team has built a loyal network of referrals and repeat clients by prioritizing clear communication, strategic marketing and trusted market insight.

The Lawyer Team continues to grow with the addition of salespersons Christian SaintNatus and Maria Colon, along with marketing manager Victoria Ambrosecchia, who leads innovative branding and marketing initiatives that elevate the team’s visibility and reach. Their continued success reﬂects a shared dedication to excellence, leadership, and creating meaningful results for the communities they proudly serve with quality service, honesty and integrity.

2026 AWARD WINNERS

DENISE SAVINO-ERICHSEN President & CEO

AUTOMATIC INDUSTRIES

Denise Savino Erichsen is the President of Automatic Industries, a family-owned company specializing in the ownership and operation of central laundry rooms in apartment buildings, co-ops, condos, colleges, marinas, guest laundries, and campgrounds. What may seem like a simple, niche business is, in fact, a dynamic industry ﬁlled with the same complex challenges many business owners face — especially in New York.

Denise began working part-time in her family’s business while attending NYIT, where she graduated in 1990. Though she didn’t consider herself an A+ student, she discovered her passion early — and with it, her strength. For her, work is truly a labor of love.

In addition to her hands-on leadership at Automatic Industries, Denise serves as the President of the Multi Laundry Association (MLA), a national organization advocating and lobbying on behalf of the laundry industry. With decades of experience, a deep commitment to her work, and a love for connecting with others,

In addition to her professional career, Denise has been married to her college sweetheart, Eric, for 33 years. Their son, Cooper, is an accountant. While he isn't involved in the family business, he provides valuable professional insight into his mother’s business endeavors. Their daughter, Ashley, a graduate of Fairﬁeld University, works alongside Denise and is being groomed to lead the business into its third generation. Her corporate ﬂavor brings a fresh and welcome perspective to the growing team.