2025 RISMedia Newsmakers Include Pa.’s Cestra, McGrath, Hanna and Flick

RISMedia recently announced their list of 2025 Real Estate Newsmakers. The list recognizes real estate champions of all kinds who were nominated by RISMedia’s readers, including brokers, agents, executives, technologists, educators and more. 

“Our eighth annual class of Real Estate Newsmakers demonstrated a wide array of accomplishments in 2024, but the name of the game was perseverance as the real estate industry as we knew it confronted existential change,” RISMedia wrote. “We applaud their widespread efforts to educate, lead and restore confidence in the invaluable role of the real estate professional.” 

The following real estate professionals from Pennsylvania made the list. 

Dennis Cestra Jr. – Futurist 

Dennis Cestra Jr., a Futurist, was recognized as a forward-thinking leader in the real estate industry. 

Cestra is a third-generation member of the Hanna real estate family and currently serves as president of Howard Hanna’s Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Maryland regions. In his role, he has pushed to integrate cutting-edge technology, including AI-driven solutions, while staying focused on proven traditional tactics. He told RISMedia that working in the family business, meeting new agents and helping people achieve the milestone of homeownership have been the most rewarding parts of his career. 

“Evolution and innovation propel us forward with a growth mindset,” Cestra told PAR. “It’s an honor to be named a RISMedia Newsmaker, and I’m proud to share this with all of our leaders, associates and support team members who have made this possible.” 

Katey McGrath – Crusader 

RISMedia named Katey McGrath a Crusader for her advocacy, leadership and service both in her community and the real estate industry overall. 

McGrath has dedicated over 25 years to real estate. She helped build Elfant Wissahickon Realtors® into the largest independent brokerage in Philadelphia and the third-largest in Pennsylvania. Last year, she spearheaded the creation of the commonwealth’s only current Women’s Council of Realtors® network, and she was elected to serve as president through this year. Notably, Philadelphia’s first female mayor, Cherelle Parker, also appointed McGrath to the Philadelphia Commission for Women. Additionally, she serves as treasurer of the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors®. 

“I’m grateful to be acknowledged!” McGrath shared. “It’s ironic since I get so much out of serving. I learn so much about all facets of our industry and meet incredible people that become more than colleagues.” 

Hoby Hanna – Luminary 

Hoby Hanna was named a Luminary. Another third-generation member of the Hanna family, he serves as CEO of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, one of the industry’s largest family-owned brokerages, managing business and operational efforts throughout more than 500 offices across 13 states. He oversees the company’s commercial brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance, relocation, appraisal and property management services. Additionally, he’s a former director of the National Association of Realtors®. However, above all, Hanna encourages real estate professionals to hold true to their core values as the industry changes and new businesses enter the market.  

“It’s a great recognition,” Hanna told PAR. “RISMedia does a great job of being a voice for the industry and studying current trends, as well as advocating for real estate and recognizing leaders. It’s an honor for RISMedia to consider me for recognition this past year.” 

Larry Flick V – Luminary 

RISMedia also named Larry Flick V a Luminary. Flick is the current CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors® and The Trident Group. He began his career in real estate over 30 years ago as a mortgage consultant and has served in a management capacity since 2006. He shared with RISMedia that the most rewarding part of his career is having the opportunity to work alongside Fox & Roach’s incredible and dedicated sales associates. Flick also sits on the board of Fox & Roach Charities, a not-for-profit charitable organization helping children and families in stressful life circumstances that has donated over $5.5 million and tens of thousands of volunteer hours to over 250 local not-for-profit organizations.