The Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS® (GFWAR) honored outstanding real estate professionals who have significantly impacted the industry and the community Wednesday during the association’s Annual Spring Awards Luncheon.
“It is an exciting time in the Fort Worth real estate market as the area continues to evolve and grow,” 2025 GFWAR President Paul Epperley said. “Celebrating the exceptional professionals who are making strides within the industry and the community with these prestigious awards sparks our membership to provide an even greater level of service to our clients.”
This year’s awards include:
Charles McMillan REALTOR® of the Year was awarded to Bart Calahan, Roots Real Estate. This award is presented to an outstanding REALTOR® in recognition of their exceptional leadership, dedicated service to GFWAR, and significant impact on the real estate industry. A past president and committee leader, Calahan is honored for his strategic vision, collaborative approach, and steadfast commitment to championing the value of REALTORS®.
Marie and Dayton Sheridan REALTOR® Spirit Award was presented to Eddie Forte, TD Realty, recognized for his outstanding helpfulness to the public and business community, as well as his cheerfulness, cooperation, business ethics, and active involvement in local REALTOR® activities. Forte exemplifies the core values of the association through his consistent dedication, collaborative spirit, and dedication to fostering a stronger GFWAR community.
Affiliate of the Year went to Sherry McKenzie, American Home Shield, which recognizes Affiliate members’ contributions and service to GFWAR. McKenzie’s outstanding support of the REALTOR® community, active involvement in association events as well as her unwavering commitment to building strong industry partnerships earned her the award.
A.L. Purvis Distinguished Service Award was given to Gaye Reed, Coldwell Banker, in recognition of her long-standing commitment, exceptional leadership, and enduring contributions to the REALTOR® association. Through years of dedicated service, Reed has consistently demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and a deep passion for advancing the real estate industry and supporting fellow members.
Charles D. Tandy Award was presented to Michael Karol, Compass Real Estate, which honors a member who best exemplifies the highest professional standards of a commercial REALTOR®. Karol’s leadership and achievements in the commercial real estate sector, commitment to professional excellence, market expertise, and dedication to elevating industry standards have made a lasting impact on the commercial real estate community.
Joan Trew TREPAC Legacy Award is a new award in honor of longtime GFWAR member and business leader, Joan Trew, who passed away in December. She is the first recipient of the award, which was accepted by her grandson, Blake Barry, of Williams Trew. Awarded to those with a prolonged and distinguished service to GFWAR and their community, Connie Davis, REALTOR®, also took home the honor. A former association president and chair of key committees, Davis has shown significant dedication to advocacy, TREPAC’s mission, and protecting property rights while fostering civic engagement within the REALTOR® community.
NAR REALTOR® Emeritus status was extended to Robbie Renfro, Achievers, in recognition of his 40 years of distinguished service as a REALTOR®.
“Fort Worth’s REALTOR® community is second to none,” GFWAR CEO Suzanne Westrum said. “The passion our REALTOR® members have for GFWAR, but more importantly, their clients, is a direct reflection of their commitment to the betterment of our Fort Worth-area communities.”
