As Property Specialists, Inc. celebrates 50 years of serving community associations throughout Northern Illinois, we are proud to share an important milestone in the continued evolution of our leadership and long-term vision.
Founded in 1975 by industry pioneer Tracy Hill, PSI was built on a simple but enduring philosophy: community association management should be relationship-driven, locally rooted, and grounded in integrity. That philosophy has guided PSI for five decades and continues to shape every decision we make today.
Following Tracy Hill’s passing, longtime PSI leader Cathy Ryan purchased the company in 2014 with a clear purpose—to preserve the legacy they built together while intentionally planning for the future. At a time when many management firms have transitioned to national ownership—often resulting in unexpected changes for boards and homeowners—PSI has remained proudly locally owned. Our clients continue to be supported by a team that lives, works, and invests in the same communities we serve.
Today, PSI is pleased to share the next chapter of that plan.
A Thoughtful Leadership Transition
Cathy Ryan will begin stepping away from the company’s day-to-day operations while continuing to serve as Chief Executive Officer. In this role, she remains actively involved in strategic oversight, mentorship, and long-term planning, ensuring continuity and stability for both clients and staff.
Assuming the role of President and Chief Operating Officer is Brittany (Ryan) Kojzarek, who will oversee PSI’s daily operations and long-term strategic initiatives. Brittany’s professional journey reflects PSI’s long-standing commitment to developing leaders from within.
Brittany joined PSI in 2005 as a file clerk and advanced through the accounting and accounts receivable departments before transitioning into community association management in 2013. While working full-time, she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in history from the University of Illinois Chicago. She became a licensed community association manager and earned her CMCA designation, later achieving her AMS in 2017 and PCAM in 2021.
In addition to her leadership at PSI, Brittany has remained deeply engaged in advancing the community association industry through professional education, governance, and collaboration. Her long-standing involvement with CAI-Illinois reflects a commitment to ethical leadership, volunteer service, and the development of future industry professionals. That dedication extends into her work with MCD Media, where she contributes to initiatives that promote education, engagement, and recognition across the profession.
Brittany’s leadership and service have been recognized by both her peers and industry partners. She is the 2025 recipient of the Condo Lifestyles Outstanding Leadership Award and Property Manager of the Year Award; honors that reflect not only individual achievement, but PSI’s broader commitment to elevating standards and investing in leadership at every level of the organization.
Strengthening PSI’s Executive Leadership Team
PSI is also proud to recognize the continued leadership of Ashley Ryan, Chief Financial Officer. Ashley joined PSI permanently more than eight years ago, following an extensive career in logistics. She 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 financial expertise, combined with her technology background, has played a key role in strengthening PSI’s accounting systems, internal controls, and operational efficiencies.
Additionally, PSI announces the promotion of Sarah Tasic to Executive Vice President of New Construction. Sarah has been a leader at PSI for more than a decade and holds her CMCA, AMS, and PCAM designations. She has worked closely with developers and communities throughout all phases of development—establishing budgets, reviewing governing documents, coordinating capital planning, and guiding associations through successful transitions to homeowner control. Her focused leadership ensures that new communities are positioned for long-term operational and financial stability.
Looking Ahead
As PSI continues to grow and evolve, some communities may experience thoughtful updates to management team assignments to ensure balanced workloads, strong support structures, and continuity of service. Any changes are communicated in advance and implemented with care.
What will not change is PSI’s commitment to remaining a trusted, local management partner—rooted in experience, guided by education, and focused on relationships.
With a strong leadership team in place and a clear vision for the future, Property Specialists, Inc. looks forward to continuing its mission of service for generations to come.