Celebrating the Leaders Moving Fort Worth Forward: 2026 Annual Celebration Recap
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On March 27, 2026, the Real Estate Council of Greater Fort Worth gathered at the Stampede Ballroom at Stockyards Station for our Annual Celebration, Your Move, REC: Celebrating Leadership. Launching What’s Next.
With a room full of industry leaders, members and partners, the event served as both a reflection on the past year and a bold step forward into REC’s next chapter.
A Year of Impact and Momentum
As part of the program, REC leadership reflected on a year filled with growth, engagement and meaningful impact across Tarrant County.
From sold-out programs and expanded member engagement to the continued success of initiatives like the Young Leaders Council, Mentoring Series and Panther Den, REC continues to strengthen its role as a connector of people, capital and ideas.
Over the past 21 years, REC has grown into a trusted voice for commercial real estate in our region, thanks to the leadership of our founders and the continued investment of our members and partners.
Launching the Strategic Plan
A central focus of this year’s Annual Celebration was the official rollout of REC’s new strategic plan, developed over the past year to guide the organization into its next phase of growth.
The plan is built around five key pillars that will shape REC’s work in the years ahead:
Voice of Commercial Real Estate
Strengthening REC’s role as the leading source of market intelligence and industry insight.
Development Solutions & Process Improvement
Improving development processes through collaboration, education and policy engagement.
Policy Leadership, Advocacy & Government Affairs
Expanding REC’s influence through a more structured and proactive advocacy approach.
Leadership, Membership & Deal Networks
Investing in future leaders while creating opportunities for connection and business development.
Community Impact & Regional Collaboration
Applying commercial real estate expertise to projects that enhance long-term growth and quality of life.
Celebrating Leadership and Excellence
A highlight of the program was recognizing the individuals who have made a lasting impact on our organization and our community.
Congratulations to our 2026 Winners:
Susan A. Halsey Founders Award
Michael Bennett, Bennett Partners
Michael Bennett was recognized for his visionary leadership and lasting impact on Fort Worth through thoughtful, community-focused development. His work reflects a deep commitment to creating spaces that enhance lives and strengthen the fabric of the city.
Danny Scarth REC Member Impact Award
Rick Jenkins, Busey Bank
Rick Jenkins was honored for his long-standing service to REC and his role in fostering collaboration across Fort Worth, Arlington and Tarrant County. His leadership has helped bring together the many voices that shape our industry.
Outstanding Young Leader Award
Camber Brown, GL Seaman & Company
Camber Brown was recognized for her immediate and meaningful impact on REC, demonstrating leadership across multiple programs and helping strengthen connections among young professionals in our industry.
Excellence Award
Don Guy, City of Fort Worth
Don Guy was honored for his exceptional service and dedication to helping projects move forward. Known as a trusted problem solver, his work plays a critical role in supporting responsible development across Fort Worth.
A Special Moment of Recognition
2026 Chairman's Award
Karen Vermaire Fox
In a surprise moment during the program, REC presented the 2026 Chairman’s Award to Karen Vermaire Fox in recognition of her leadership and service as Executive Director since the organization’s founding in 2004.
For more than two decades, Karen has been instrumental in shaping REC into the organization it is today — building its foundation, strengthening its voice and guiding its growth every step of the way. Her leadership, dedication and vision have left a lasting impact on both the organization and the broader commercial real estate community.
Share Your Feedback
We are always looking to improve and build meaningful experiences for our members. Your feedback helps guide future programming and ensures we continue delivering value to our community.
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If you had a parking issue please email Abby@RECouncilGFW.com and give me the phone number you used & your license plate. We'll see if we can get it fixed!
Event Photos
Relive the moments from this year’s celebration and see familiar faces from across the industry.
📷 Photography by Sotos Photos
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Your partnership allows us to celebrate leadership, strengthen connections and continue advancing REC’s mission.
