The Quad City Area REALTORS (QCAR) recently celebrated its members and their leadership in the industry and community at the organization’s annual holiday party.
The Bettendorf-based QCAR held its party and installation of officers on Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center in Bettendorf. The evening brings together REALTOR members and business partners to celebrate and highlight the year’s outstanding achievements.
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In a news release Wednesday, Dec. 17, QCAR announced these 2025 award recipients:
- Business Partner of the Year: Katz Nowinski Law, Moline.
- Rookie of the Year: Emily Mengler, a Realtor with Ruhl&Ruhl Bettendorf Office.
- Senior Statesman Award: Dave Maubach, a Realtor with Mel Foster Co.
- William E. Stradt Sr./Bud Hill Distinguished Service Award: David Gellerman, CEO of Hawkeye Commercial Co.
- Sharon Smith Legacy Award: Sally Atwell, sales manager of Ruhl&Ruhl Davenport Office.
- REALTOR of the Year: Jennifer Peters, a Realtor with Ruhl&Ruhl Davenport Office.
The industry association said each honoree exemplifies professionalism, leadership, and a strong commitment to the mission and values of QCAR.
Of the award named in her honor, QCAR Chief Executive Officer Sharon Smith said “This award is not a traditional association honor. It is centered on the individual – their character, the way they conduct themselves in the real estate industry, and the support they offer to others,” she said in a separate news release from Ruhl&Ruhl Realtors.
The Business Partner of the Year Award, QCAR said, is presented to an organization that not only excels in their profession but demonstrates dedication to the success of the real estate community.
In presenting Katz Nowinski’s award, Ms. Smith said “Every year brings new challenges – market shifts, regulatory changes, complex contracts, and the unexpected legal questions … Through all of these, one partner has been there for us every step of the way.”
New QCAR board installed
The annual celebration also includes the installation of the new QCAR board. These officers will lead the 2026 Board of Directors: President Amanda Yeggy; President-Elect Justin Landwehr; Secretary/Treasurer Jennifer Peters; and Immediate Past President Craig Newcomb. The 2026 board members are: Dwayne Anderson, Christine Clark, Fred Dasso, Max Gellerman, Joel Hansen, Carie Nesbitt, Jeremy Swanson, and Pete Voss.
In the release, QCAR welcomed the dedicated group of leaders, sharing how it looks forward to their guidance and service on behalf of the membership.
QCAR represents more than 1,200 members across the bi-state region. Its role is to advocate for private property rights, promote homeownership, and lead community-focused initiatives that support housing innovation and smart growth in the Quad Cities. For more information about QCAR and its programs, visit www.QCAR.Realtor.
