Colleen Whelan named Calgary’s Realtor of the Year

Colleen Whelan was awarded the 2021 Realtor of the Year – T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award at the Calgary Real Estate Board’s (CREB) Diamond Gala in June.

It’s the most prestigious award a CREB member can receive, recognizing Realtors who exemplify high standards of professionalism, integrity and outstanding dedication to the community.

“I am so honoured,” said Whelan after she was announced as the award recipient. “We work in such an amazing industry and I know many Realtors are doing tons of amazing things. To be recognized in this way is probably the highest honour I could ever be granted.”

Whelan has prioritized giving back to the community and the industry throughout her 37-year real estate career, says the board. She has volunteered for various committees and governance positions at CREB, currently serving on the board’s Community Foundation’s Board of

Governors. She also spends time investing in others, mentoring new professionals who work alongside her at MaxWell Capital Reality.

In the community, Whelan has been involved with organizations such as the Youth Singers of Calgary, the Central United Church, the Kids Help Phone and Lake Louise Ski Friends Association, with many of her volunteer roles spanning over 20 years.

“Colleen is always doing something to help out,” says Tracy Carson, broker and owner of MaxWell Capital Reality. “She is humble and sincere; she is kind and has a tremendous amount of integrity. She is an excellent recipient of this award.”

The award was created in memory of Thomas William Henry Saunders (1903-1977), an outstanding CREB member who inspired others with his professional excellence and commitment to bettering the community, says the board.

“Like the awards namesake, Colleen always goes above and beyond for her clients, her peers and the community,” says CREB chair Lorna Hamm. “She truly is one of the most selfless individuals I know and is constantly inspiring other Realtors to be the best they can be both professionally and in their community.”