Recognizing Excellence: Highlights from the 2024 Texas Real Estate Awards at Winter Meeting

Texas REALTORS® Announces 2024 Texas Real Estate Award Winners

On February 10, 2025, during the annual Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting held in Austin, members and local REALTOR® associations were celebrated for their contributions to the real estate profession. This prestigious event showcased the dedication and hard work of Texas REALTORS®, as awards were presented to individuals and organizations that have shown remarkable commitment to excellence in real estate.

Celebrating Excellence in Real Estate
The Texas REALTORS® Awards are a tradition that allows the association to honor those who go above and beyond in their efforts. Christy Gessler, the 2025 Chair of Texas REALTORS®, stated, "Every year, we're honored to showcase some of the state's hardest working professionals and associations in real estate through the Texas REALTORS® Awards." This year’s winners exemplify the vital role that real estate professionals play in supporting local communities and fostering economic development in Texas.

Major Award Winners
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2024 Texas REALTOR® of the Year, a title awarded to Cindi Bulla of the Amarillo Association of REALTORS®. With over 25 years of experience, Bulla has significantly impacted the Amarillo community and the real estate profession as a whole. She has served on various advisory committees at local, state, and national levels, demonstrating a deep commitment to her peers and the industry.

Robert Wright from Austin was honored with the Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his 45 years of dedication to the REALTOR® organization and his consistent volunteerism since 1992. His influential role included being a founding board member of the Austin chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

Moreover, Kent Redding earned the 2024 Texas REALTORS® Good Neighbor Award for his extensive volunteer work with Mobile Loaves and Fishes, which aids the chronically homeless by connecting them with essential resources. Shelyna Tinglin was awarded the Educator of the Year Award for her exceptional contributions to real estate education, including her leadership with the Texas Real Estate Commission Education Standards Advisory Committee.

The evening also introduced the Richard Miranda Global Achievement Award, awarded to Adrian Arriaga for his leadership in global real estate over the past four decades. His efforts in representing high net worth Spanish-speaking investors and helping U.S. companies establish manufacturing operations in Mexico have made a significant impact.

Recognition of Local Associations
In addition to individual honors, three local associations received recognition for their exemplary educational initiatives. The San Antonio Board of REALTORS® won in the innovation category, the Houston Association of REALTORS® excelled in marketing, and the Austin Board of REALTORS® was commended for their outstanding legal programs.

Gilbert Gonzalez from the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® was honored with the Tom D. Morton Award for his exceptional leadership as an association executive, while the Collin County Area REALTORS® received the Mark Lehman Governmental Affairs Achievement Award, recognizing their formidable grassroots efforts.

Engaging the Next Generation
The Young Professionals Network (YPN) also presented the REALTORS® to Watch Award to six exemplary members under 40, highlighting their leadership and community involvement. The recipients spanned various cities, showcasing the future of real estate in Texas.

Commitment to Diversity and Education
Diversity and inclusivity were prominent themes at the event. Several local associations received awards for their efforts in promoting diversity within the profession. The Austin Board of REALTORS®, Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS®, Greater McAllen Association of REALTORS®, MetroTex Association of REALTORS®, and San Antonio Board of REALTORS® were all recognized for their commitment to these vital initiatives.

In addition to awards for diversity efforts, various individuals received scholarships, including the Texas Accredited Commercial Specialist Scholarship, aimed at enhancing professional development within the field.

Conclusion
The Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting was a celebration of hard work, commitment, and a dedication to excellence. Together, these individuals and organizations reflect the spirit of real estate in Texas, fostering thriving communities and contributing significantly to the state's economy. As the real estate landscape evolves, the passion and innovation shown by Texas REALTORS® will undoubtedly continue to lead the way forward.

With over 150,000 members, Texas REALTORS® advocates for REALTORS® and property rights across the state, ensuring that the voice of real estate professionals is heard and respected.