Virginia REALTORS^® held its annual awards ceremony in Williamsburg on September 16, 2026. The ceremony recognized distinguished REALTOR^® leaders who excel in various areas of real estate, along with notable community contributions. Awardees were selected by a committee of peers as standouts among our association’s membership of nearly 34,000.

Join us in congratulating this year’s outstanding honorees.

The Virginia REALTOR^® of the Year Award is presented to professionals who have made proven contributions to the real estate industry through both personal and professional achievement and impeccable volunteerism.

The 2026 Virginia REALTOR^® of the Year is Lorraine Arora of the Dulles Area Association of REALTORS^®!

With more than three decades of service to the real estate profession, Lorraine Arora has been a standout leader at the local, state, and national levels. A recent past President of  Virginia REALTORS^® in 2025, Lorraine exemplifies the very best of our profession. Her genuine care for clients, unwavering support of colleagues, and commitment to serving her community make her a respected leader and trusted advisor. With a positive attitude and a heart for helping others, she leaves a lasting impact wherever she goes.

Join us in congratulating Lorraine on this prestigious honor!

Virginia REALTORS^® Hall of Fame 2026 Inductees

• Tanya Monroe, Coastal Virginia Association of REALTORS^®,
• William A. “Bill” White, Jr., Richmond Association REALTORS^®, and
• Arleen Yobs of the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS^®

Virginia REALTORS^® 2026 Property Manager of the Year

• Courtney Parks of the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS^® 

Virginia REALTORS^® 2026 RPAC Champion

• Mary Ross Ellsworth of the Coastal Virginia Association of REALTORS^®

2026 Good Neighbor Awards

In addition to this honor, each Good Neighbor honoree will receive a $1,500 award, which will go to the 501(c)(3) non-profit/charity they serve.

• Mary Beth Harris of the Rockbridge Highlands REALTORS^®, representing Renewing Homes of Greater Augusta,
• LaDonna Lewis of the Richmond Association of REALTORS^®, representing A Pink Christmas Foundation, and
• Donna Patton of the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS^®, representing Green Dogs Unleashed.

The following awards were also announced during the ceremony:

Virginia Women’s Council of REALTORS^® 2026 State Member of the Year Award – Claudia Sarmiento of the REALTOR^® Association of Prince William

Virginia CRS of the Year 2026 – Anne Burroughs of the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS^®

Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners AND our pool of remarkably talented nominees!