Event Overview

RISMedia is poised to host a major celebration during its 37th Annual CEO & Leadership Exchange, scheduled for September 3-5 at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. This year’s conference will feature a newly expanded awards event, merging two longstanding traditions: the Real Estate Newsmakers Dinner and the Power Broker Dinner. The single event, now known as RISMedia’s Annual Awards Gala, will take place on the evening of September 4.

A Night of Honoring Excellence

The gala will honor several distinguished achievements within the industry. Attendees can expect to celebrate the 2025 Newsmakers Hall of Fame inductees alongside the annual Power Broker award recipients, recognizing the pinnacle of leadership and innovation in real estate.

Moreover, the evening will culminate in the announcement of the 2025 Real Estate Rookie of the Year, spotlighting new agents who have demonstrated exceptional success and professionalism in their early careers.

Quotes from Leadership

John Featherston, RISMedia Founder and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about the revamped event: “We’re confident that this evolution of our events will enhance the experience for our honorees and attendees alike, making this year’s CEO & Leadership Exchange an even more impactful and must-attend event. The event promises to be a remarkable gathering of industry icons and innovators.”

Educational Sessions and Keynote Speakers

The 2025 CEO & Leadership Exchange will also feature an extensive lineup of over 100 distinguished speakers and panelists throughout the conference. Notable contributors include:

• Bess Freedman – Brown Harris Stevens
• Nykia Wright – National Association of REALTORS
• Leo Pareja – eXp
• Dan Duffy – United Real Estate
• Robert Reffkin – Compass
• Merri Jo Cowen – Stellar MLS
• Todd Sumney – HomeSmart
• Anthony Lamacchia – Lamacchia Realty
• Larry Flick V – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS®
• Renee Gonzales – Long Realty Company
• Brian Donnellan – Bright MLS
• Donny Samson – Samson Properties
• Cheryl Abrams Davis – RE/MAX United Real Estate
• Chris Trapani – Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno
• Lacey Conway – Latter & Blum | Compass
• Andy Allen – The Andy Allen Team, Keller Williams Realty
• Keith Smith – YES Realty Partners
• Brad Bjelke – UtahRealEstate.com

Additional speakers are expected to be announced in the near future.

Registration and Attendance

Interested participants can take advantage of an early-bird ticket offer, ensuring access to this pivotal event at a reduced rate. This is an opportunity to engage with leading figures in the real estate industry and gain insights into the future trends that will shape the market.

For more details and to secure your participation, visit the official event page here.