PSI Specializes in the management of homeowner associations. From professional business, governance, and community management services, to leading online services – we offer a complete and unparalleled solution for our clients.
Meet Our Family
Cathy D. Ryan, CMCA, AMS, PCAM | Chief Executive Officer
Cathy D. Ryan has dedicated her career to Property Specialists, Inc., joining the company in 1983 and playing a key role in building PSI into a trusted, locally owned community association management firm. Following the passing of PSI’s founder, Tracy Hill, Cathy purchased the company in 2014 to preserve its legacy while ensuring long-term stability and thoughtful succession. She holds the CMCA, AMS, and PCAM professional designations and has remained committed to mentorship, education, and leadership within the community association industry. As Chief Executive Officer, Cathy continues to provide strategic guidance and oversight while supporting the next generation of PSI leadership.
Brittany Kojzarek, CMCA, AMS, PCAM | President & Chief Operating Officer
Brittany Kojzarek serves as President and Chief Operating Officer of Property Specialists, Inc., bringing nearly two decades of experience across accounting, operations, and community association management. She joined PSI in 2005 and advanced through the organization while earning her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in history from the University of Illinois Chicago. Brittany holds the CMCA, AMS, and PCAM designations and is actively engaged in advancing professional education, governance, and collaboration within the community association industry through her involvement with CAI-Illinois and MCD Media initiatives. Her leadership and service have been recognized by industry peers, including being named the 2025 recipient of the Condo Lifestyles Outstanding Leadership Award and Property Manager of the Year Award.
Ashley Ryan | Chief Financial Officer
Ashley Ryan serves as Chief Financial Officer of Property Specialists, Inc., overseeing the firm’s financial operations, accounting systems, and internal controls. She joined PSI permanently in 2014 following an extensive career in logistics and brings a strong background in financial management and technology to her role. Ashley holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois with double majors in International Business and Information Systems and Information Technology (ISIT). Her expertise supports PSI’s operational efficiency and financial integrity across the organization.
Sarah Tasic, CMCA, AMS, PCAM | Executive Vice President of New Construction
Sarah Tasic serves as Executive Vice President of New Construction at Property Specialists, Inc., bringing more than a decade of experience in community association management and development services. She began her career managing associations onsite and within portfolios before focusing on new construction and developer services. Sarah holds the CMCA, AMS, and PCAM designations and has worked closely with developers and boards to establish budgets, review governing documents, coordinate capital planning, and guide communities through successful homeowner transitions. Her leadership helps ensure new associations are positioned for long-term operational and financial success.
Jennifer Morgan | Vice President of New Construction
Jennifer Morgan has been an asset to the PSI team since 2002. Starting at PSI as an administrative clerk in high school and working her way up through the ranks. She has worked in several different departments over the years which has made her a great resource for other staff members and PSI clients. As the Director of New Construction, Jennifer works with home builders during the development of a new communities. Striving to be a success in the community association management industry she balances work and home by spending time with her family, serving on the Board of the local youth football organization, and being active within her community.
Alexandra Carmigiano, CMCA | Senior Account Manager
Alexandra Carmigiano joined the Property Specialists team as a Portfolio Manager in the fall of 2020 and has since risen to the rank of Senior Account Manager, overseeing and training new managers. With over eight years of experience in high-rise property management, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as a Community Association Manager. Before joining Property Specialists, Alexandra honed her skills in various aspects of community association management, including tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and financial oversight. Her strong work ethic and dedication to excellence have been instrumental in her success. Alexandra holds the Certified Manager of Community Association (CMCA) designation as well as the Association Management Specialist (AMS) designation—a testament to her commitment to professional development and industry best practices. She continues to expand her knowledge through ongoing education and training, staying up to date on the latest trends and regulations in the field. Beyond her technical skills, Alexandra excels in building strong relationships with board members and homeowners. She is passionate about guiding boards and providing exceptional service to our clients.
Vitto Pena | Senior Account Manager
Bringing a decade of expertise to the table, Vitto Pena stands as a seasoned Community Association Manager with a passion for fostering vibrant and harmonious communities. Throughout his career, Vitto has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the needs of community residents with professionalism and care. In his role as a Community Association Manager, Vitto oversees the day-to-day operations of our communities, ensuring that they thrive and prosper under his guidance. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to open communication, he works tirelessly to address the unique needs of each community he serves, striving to create environments where residents feel truly at home. Beyond his professional endeavors, Vitto finds joy in staying active and engaged in his personal pursuits. Whether he’s hitting the links for a round of golf, enjoying a friendly game of basketball, or immersing himself in the latest blockbuster at the movies, Vitto approaches every aspect of his life with energy and enthusiasm. As a Community Association Manager, Vitto Pena embodies the values of integrity, diligence, and community that lie at the heart of our organization. With his expertise and dedication, he is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those he serves, one community at a time.
Jennifer Morris | Senior Account Manager
Jenny joined PSI in 2022 and has been growing ever since, earning her Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) designation in 2025 and stepping into her role as Senior Account Manager in 2026. Jenny loves that no two days in community management are ever the same—there’s always something new to learn and a new challenge to tackle. She brings a strong work ethic, sharp attention to detail, and excellent project management skills to her role, and is dedicated to making a positive impact in every community she serves. When she’s not working, Jenny enjoys spending time with her husband and three sons. You’ll often find her on the golf course, curled up with a good book, watching reality TV, or planning her next DIY project.
Community Association Managers
Ariel Lepe
Ariel began her career in the community association management industry in 2013 and became a manager in 2017 after earning her IREM credential. She joined PSI in the summer of 2020 and is known for her strong leadership, reliability, and commitment to delivering exceptional service to her communities. Ariel is highly regarded for her problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and her ability to build meaningful relationships with both boards and residents. She brings a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to every situation and consistently goes above and beyond to support those she serves. Outside of work, she enjoys vacationing in Florida with her family, attending metal concerts, baking, gardening, and taking on DIY projects.
Alyssa Bartecki, CMCA
Alyssa joined PSI at the end of summer 2021 as an Assistant Community Association Manager in the new construction department and has since grown into her role as a Community Association Manager. She worked hard to earn her CMCA and is proud of how far she’s come in her career. Alyssa enjoys building relationships with her communities and being part of the process as new neighborhoods come to life. She is very responsive and detail-oriented in her work. In her free time, Alyssa enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as reading and cooking.
Cathy Sundal
Cathy Sundal has been a dedicated community manager since 2021, with a passion for building strong communities. Prior to joining PSI, she gained valuable experience as an onsite manager. She thrives on the dynamic nature of the industry and enjoys collaborating with homeowners associations and vendors to achieve shared goals. She also has a particular enthusiasm for budget season. Outside of work, Cathy enjoys spending quality time with her husband, two sons, and beloved dogs. She is an enthusiastic sports fan and finds joy in exploring the beauty of the Rocky Mountains through hiking, as well as embracing new cultures through travel.
Cristy Ulrich, CMCA, AMS
Cristy began her career in the community association industry in 1979, bringing decades of experience and an unmatched depth of knowledge to her role. She joined the Property Specialists team in 2003 as a portfolio manager after spending more than 20 years as an onsite manager at a retirement community. Throughout her career, Cristy has encountered and successfully navigated a wide range of complex and unique situations, making her an invaluable resource to both boards and colleagues. She is known for her exceptional attention to detail, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to doing things the right way—often going above and beyond to ensure every aspect of her communities is handled with care and precision. Cristy genuinely enjoys working with her board members and homeowners, building lasting relationships and supporting well-run communities. Outside of work, she enjoys camping and relaxing by the campfire.
Joey Pena
New to the industry, coming from a strong insurance background with 20+ years experience. She joined the PSI team in 2023 as a Community Association Manger. She loves the fast-paced environment and getting to know each one of her communities individually to best manage their needs and expectations. When not in the office she is a natural caretaker so you can typically find her with family, friends, and all her many many pets that are all spoiled rotten. Hobbies include volunteering, animal activism, and cooking. She is a die hard vegan and loves trying to convert anyone, and everyone, to try a new vegan recipe.
Jeffrey Madigan, CMAC
Jeffrey Madigan, CMAC, joined PSI in January 2025, bringing over 20 years of experience in the property management field. He began his career as an Accounts Receivable Clerk for a short-term vacation rental company in Florida that managed over 600 homes and was later promoted to Operations Manager, a role he held for eight years.In 2008, Jeffrey transitioned into the Illinois market as a Community Association Manager. He has experience serving as both a Portfolio Property Manager and an Onsite Manager, managing communities in suburban areas as well as high-rise buildings in Chicago. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys history, sports, golf, and spending time with his family.
Lauren Austin
Lauren started working in the industry in 2017 as an Assistant Community Association Manager. She joined the PSI team in 2025 and later obtained her IREM to further grow in her role. She’s dedicated to bringing a dependable, supportive presence to her work every day. In her free time, she enjoys drawing and painting, being outdoors, and spending time with friends and family..
Leslie Beltran
Leslie has been with PSI since 2017. You might catch her on a walk with vendors, Board members, or members of the community when she’s on property. Leslie enjoys baking and spending time with her family. When she’s not watching a Bears or Cubs games she is cheering on her children from the sidelines. One of her favorite saying is, “ No matter how you feel… get up, dress up, show up, and never give up.
Ruben Luna
Joined PSI in November 2021. He is a huge baseball fan; loves the Chicago White Sox. During the summer, he likes to take advantage of the nice weather, going to the lake, concerts, or even cooking up some great food on the grill and having friends over for a cook out. As a big music fan, he listens to just about any genre of music while staying active. He enjoys kayaking, rollerblading, swimming, and especially beach volleyball.
Tyler Maichel
Tyler joined the Property Specialists team in the Fall of 2023. Before coming to PSI, Tyler was the onsite assistant manager of a high-rise community where he worked for 14 years. He is an avid Chicago sports fan and a Chicago Bears season ticket holder. When he is not attending Bears games he enjoys classic cinema, video games, and going to concerts.
Yuliya Britva, CMCA
Yuliya Britva, CMCA, joined PSI in June 2025 and brings over two years of experience in the property management industry, along with 16 years of expertise in mortgage and real estate. She has a strong background in customer service, financial management, and real estate operations, with extensive knowledge of governing documents and experience working closely with homeowners and boards to support effective community management. Outside of her professional work, Yuliya enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle through fitness, cooking, reading, and traveling with her daughter.
Community Association Assistants
Brandy Rueber | New Construction Assistant
Started fresh in the industry with PSI in June 2020. She spent 15 years in higher education and decided on a new adventure. She has been married to her wonderful husband for over a decade. She has two beautiful stepdaughters and together they have a son. In her spare time, she loves being with family, crocheting, and watching Disney movies.
Melissa Micari | Community Association Assistant
Has been with the PSI family since 2005, she started as the receptionist and was promoted to assistant community association manager. She has 2 wonderful children and loves to spend time with her family and friends. Her happy place is sitting on the beach listening to the ocean and also loves to crochet and garden.
Ryen Vincent Pena | Community Association Assistant
New to the industry, he joined the PSI family in October 2022. Since day one, he has strived to bring 100% effort to the office to ensure homeowners are happy at the end of each day. When away from the office he enjoys watching Marvel movies, playing volleyball, and snowboarding. He spends as much time as he can with family and friends, trying out new food and getting outside.
Traci Markland | Executive Assistant
Traci Markland began her career with PSI and in the community association management industry in December 2019. She also brings a longstanding background in real estate, having worked in the field on and off since 2001. Her combined experience provides a well-rounded understanding of property operations, homeowner relations, and the nuances of real estate, allowing her to effectively support both boards and residents. Traci is known for her approachable nature and commitment to fostering positive community environments. She takes pride in building strong relationships and helping communities operate smoothly and efficiently. Outside of her professional role, Traci enjoys spending time outdoors through camping, fishing, hiking, and bicycle riding. She also values quality time with her husband and children.
Administrative Staff
Janet Dean | Chief Administrative Officer
Janet Dean serves as Chief Administrative Officer of Property Specialists, Inc., bringing decades of institutional knowledge and organizational expertise to her role. She began her career at PSI as a temporary employee filling in during a maternity leave and was soon hired as an Associate in 1996. Over the years, Janet advanced through administrative and accounting-payroll roles, later serving as Assistant to the Vice President and most recently as Executive Assistant to the CEO & President. Her professional growth reflects a deep understanding of PSI’s operations, culture, and commitment to service, making her a trusted leader and resource across the organization.
Jeannie Cooney | Accounts Receiveable
Joined the PSI Team in 2016 as our Corporate Office Receptionist and has been a member of the Accounts Receivable Department since January 2018. She is grateful for the opportunity to work for Property Specialists and to provide exceptional assistance to our Homeowners. To attain a healthy work/life balance, she enjoys spending time with family, gardening, swimming, bicycle riding, and traveling.
Joe Tasic | Director of Technology & Internal Operations
Joe Tasic has been an integral part of PSI since 2012, overseeing the company’s evolving technology infrastructure and internal operational systems. In his role as Director of Technology & Internal Operations, he leads initiatives that enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and support the organization’s continued growth. He also plays a key role in business development, helping to bring new clients into the PSI portfolio and strengthen the company’s market presence. Joe is known for his forward-thinking approach and ability to align technology with operational needs, ensuring both team members and clients benefit from reliable, effective systems. Outside of work, Joe enjoys camping with his family and dogs, along with other outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming.
Kelly McDonough | Closings
Kelly has been with PSI since 1994, starting as a receptionist before advancing to an assistant manager role. Since 1998, she has been an integral part of the closings department, bringing decades of experience and knowledge to her work.
She has seen the industry evolve from phone, fax, and mail to today’s technology-driven processes, allowing her to efficiently handle closing requests with accuracy and attention to detail. Kelly plays a key role in ensuring transactions run smoothly from start to finish.
Outside of work, Kelly enjoys reading, bowling, spending time with her three sons, and attending fairs, festivals, and musical concerts.
Kent Lowe | Community Inspector
Kent Lowe joined PSI in 2011 as Quality Assurance Director and Assistant Manager, bringing with him a strong foundation in quality assurance and customer service. Prior to PSI, he spent 18 years with a major Chicagoland home builder, where he advanced from Midwest Customer Service Manager to Director of Quality Assurance. In these roles, he developed extensive expertise in construction standards, homeowner relations, and process improvement. Kent’s background provides a unique perspective in community management, particularly in supporting associations with developer transitions, warranty-related matters, and quality control initiatives. He is known for his detail-oriented approach and commitment to maintaining high standards across the communities he serves.
Michelle Gillette | Accounting
Michelle Gillette has been a valued member of the PSI team since the spring of 2001. With over two decades of experience, she plays a key role in the Accounting Department, where she is responsible for producing and verifying monthly financial statements. Michelle also ensures accuracy and consistency by reconciling monthly bank statements across operating, money market, investment, and CD accounts.
Known for her attention to detail and reliability, Michelle is an integral part of maintaining the financial integrity of the communities we serve. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, capturing moments through her creative lens.
Mitch Swiatek | Accounts Receiveable
Has been with PSI since 2002, starting in the Accounts Payable before transferring to the Accounts Receivable. As the manager of AR, he oversees the day to day operations of payments and correspondence regarding homeowner accounts, and investigates and resolves irregularities with the homeowners’ accounts. He enjoys a good mystery, while they can be frustrating it is the satisfaction when he can solve the issue.
Mitzi Buttner | Marketing & Operations Coordinator
Mitzi has been a valued member of the PSI family since 2001, contributing to a variety of departments including Reception, New Construction, and as an On-site Assistant Manager. In her current role as Marketing & Operations Coordinator, she brings creativity and a collaborative approach, playing a key role in developing PSI’s marketing materials. She is also part of the Transition Team, where her experience helps support smooth community transitions.
Outside of work, Mitzi enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, camping, and working on DIY projects and crafts. She also loves Halloween, reflecting her fun and creative spirit.
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