Katy Donovan, broker and owner of Homes By Connect, has been named the 2025 realtor of the year by the Newport County Board of Realtors.
The Newport County Board of Realtors announced the award Oct. 8. The honor recognizes a realtor who demonstrates professional integrity, industry leadership and community involvement.
Donovan was selected for her client service, mentorship of fellow realtors and commitment to local communities through her work and volunteer efforts, according to the announcement.
With a background in education and more than 15 years in Rhode Island real estate, Donovan has built her career on connection, communication and collaboration, according to the release. Homes By Connect operates as a referral-based brokerage serving clients across Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.
Donovan has served on the Newport County Board of Realtors’ Grievance and Professional Standards Committee and previously served on the board of directors. Rhode Island Monthly recognized Donovan and The Donovan Group at Homes By Connect for professional excellence in real estate earlier this year.
Through Homes By Connect’s Connect Cares program, Donovan and her team support local organizations including Newport Pride, the Women’s Resource Center, Foster Forward, FabNewport, Potter League and Rhode Island PBS, among others.
“This recognition is such an honor, but it’s really a reflection of the people I get to work with every day,” Donovan said in a statement. “To my clients, colleagues and this incredible community — thank you for your trust, support and partnership.”
Homes By Connect is based in Portsmouth and specializes in residential real estate.
