BCAAR Announces 2026 Annual Award Winners

NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information:
Amanda Lankard, CEO
Battle Creek Area Association of REALTORS®
269.962.5193/alankerd@bcaar.com

BCAAR Announces 2026 Annual Award Winners
 

Battle Creek, MI, April 27, 2026 - The Battle Creek Area Association of REALTORS® (BCAAR) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 annual awards, recognizing outstanding achievement and contributions to the real estate profession and the community.

Aron Hodo of Real Estate One Rosemary Davis has been named the 2026 REALTOR® of the Year. Joscelyn Brady of eXp Realty has been honored as the 2026 Rookie of the Year, and Cody Barkowski of Consumers Credit Union has been recognized as the 2026 Affiliate of the Year. 

2026 REALTOR® of the Year - Aron Hodo, Real Estate One Rosemary Davis



This annual recognition is the highest honor bestowed  upon a Calhoun County REALTOR®. It stands for integrity, individual achievement, and perhaps the greatest recognition from peers in the real estate industry.

Aron Hodo joined BCAAR in August of 2017. He currently serves as Past President of the Board of Directors and chairs the Membership Committee (since 2023). He is also a member of the Budget Committee and represents BCAAR on the Michigan Regional Forms Committee. Previously, he served as Chair of the Government Affairs Committee and continues to contribute as a member.

Beyond the association, Aron exemplifies what is means to be a community-focused professional. Through services on the City of Marshall Planning Commission and Joint Planning Commission, Aron has played a key role in shaping local development, land use, and long-term planning efforts. His involvement in the city's master planning process highlights a deep investment in the future of the community we serve. Aron actively invests in the community through sponsorships such as the Franke Center for the Arts and the Marshall Pride Festival.

2026 Rookie of the Year - Joscelyn Brady, eXp Realty



The Rookie of the Year award is bestowed upon an agent who has been a REALTOR® for two years or less and has demonstrated outstanding achievements and contributions as a REALTOR® within the Association and in their business endeavors.

Joscelyn Brady joined BCAAR in July 2024. In her 1.5 years in real estate, she achieved $6.2 million in sales. Joscelyn exemplifies the REALTOR® Spirit through her active involvement in community initiatives, including Career Day at Athens High School, the VA Stand Down event to combat veteran homelessness, and sponsoring the LaVern Brann Scholarship Fund to support local athletic teams, among other events. She has also collaborated with the City of Battle Creek, Battle Creek Public Schools, and local lenders to provide educational opportunities and housing guidance. 

Within BCAAR, Joscelyn has volunteered for the annual Golf Outing, attended all general membership meetings in 2025, and continuously advocates for our profession. Her dedication extends beyond her own success. She actively mentors fellow REALTORS®, sharing knowledge and resources to strengthen the profession and enhance public trust.

2026 Affiliate of the Year - Cody Barkowski, Consumers Credit Union



The award recognizes a current affiliate partner who has made the greatest contribution of time, energy, and resources to BCAAR over the past 12 months. The honoree demonstrates a commitment to the real estate industry by providing exemplary service, participating in BCAAR events/activities, teaching continuing education courses, and more.

Cody Barkowski joined BCAAR in August of 2024. He quickly joined committees and is actively involved in BCAAR's Committee for Diversity & Inclusion, Governmental Affairs, and, just recently, Public Relations. He regularly attends general membership meetings and gives back through volunteer work at community events supporting underserved populations. He dedication extends beyond expectations, often working the same demanding hours as a REALTOR®.

Cody brings a strong sense of purpose, guided by his values and a deep commitment to the real estate industry. He exemplifies honesty, empathy, professionalism, and competence in every interaction, consistently going above and beyond for his clients with exceptional care and service.

About BCAAR
The Battle Creek Area Association of REALTORS®, founded in 1915, is a trade association that empowers REALTORS® and real estate partners by enhancing their proficiency, enforcing ethical standards, and fostering cooperation within the real estate industry. BCAAR provides services to almost 300 members who help people thrive through property ownership.