For some, a career is simply a series of tasks. For Ryan Keeney, Environmental Services Director at Presbyterian Senior Living, it is an opportunity to serve, to solve, and to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. With a background in the trades and a deep-seated desire to help people, Ryan has found a home at PSL where his technical skills and his compassionate spirit can both flourish. Whether he is troubleshooting a complex mechanical issue or simply sharing a laugh with a resident, Ryan brings a level of dedication and warmth that defines the PSL experience.
Ryan’s journey to PSL was guided by a simple but powerful motivation: the desire to help. With years of experience in maintenance and the trades, he was looking for a role where his work would have a deeper meaning. He found that purpose in senior living.
Ryan’s career began in HVAC before expanding into a variety of skilled trades and construction management. After spending time working in construction management, he eventually returned to the facilities and maintenance field and joined Cathedral Village, where he has now spent more than 17 years serving the community. His broad experience across multiple trades helped prepare him for the leadership role he holds today.
"I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, but I also wanted to feel like I was making a difference," Ryan shares. "In senior living, you aren't just fixing a sink or a light fixture; you are helping someone in their home. You are making their life a little easier and a little brighter."
Since joining the PSL team, Ryan has become an indispensable part of the community. His technical expertise is matched only by his ability to connect with residents and fellow team members alike.
As Environmental Services Director, Ryan oversees the physical health of the community, but he sees his role as much more than just managing infrastructure. He views Environmental Services as a vital part of the care team.
"Our goal is to create an environment where residents feel safe, comfortable, and cared for," Ryan explains. "That means being proactive, being responsive, and always keeping the residents' well-being at the forefront of everything we do."
Ryan oversees operations across a 17-building campus and helps manage not only maintenance, but also housekeeping, transportation, security, preventive maintenance, and life safety compliance. His team supports 252 apartments, 82 skilled nursing beds, and 26 Personal Care Units daily, helping ensure residents experience a safe and welcoming environment throughout the community.
Ryan’s typical day is a whirlwind of activity, from coordinating repairs and managing budgets to meeting with vendors and planning for future improvements. But no matter how busy he is, he always makes time for the people he serves.
He describes the role as a constant “juggling act,” where unexpected issues can quickly shift priorities. Whether responding to emergencies, managing inspections, or supporting residents during unforeseen situations, Ryan believes strong leadership starts with remaining calm and leading by example.
"The best part of my day is interacting with the residents," he says. "They have so much wisdom and so many stories to share. Just a five-minute conversation can make a huge difference for them, and it certainly makes a difference for me."
Ryan is quick to credit his team for the success of the Environmental Service department. He believes in a leadership style rooted in mutual respect and open communication.
"I am incredibly lucky to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people," Ryan says. "We truly operate as a team. We support each other, we learn from each other, and we all share the same commitment to excellence."
That sense of collaboration extends beyond the Environmental Service department. Ryan values the strong relationships he has built with leaders and team members across the entire community.
"At PSL, there is a real sense of community," he notes. "Everyone is working toward the same goal, and there is a genuine willingness to help one another. It makes coming to work every day a pleasure."
Ryan says that spirit of teamwork extends to the residents as well. One of his favorite places on campus is the community dog park, a space transformed from an unused yard into a gathering place where residents and their pets can socialize and connect with one another.
When asked what advice he would give to someone starting out in the maintenance field, Ryan emphasizes the importance of both technical skill and emotional intelligence.
"Learn as much as you can about the technical side of the job, but never forget the human element," he advises. "In this field, your attitude and your ability to communicate are just as important as your ability to fix things. Be patient, be kind, and always remember that you are working in someone’s home."
Ryan also encourages younger professionals to stay current with evolving technology and continue learning throughout their careers.
Outside of work, Ryan enjoys golfing and spending time riding ATVs and side-by-sides. He also coached hockey for more than 20 years for his three sons, an experience that further shaped his leadership style and appreciation for teamwork.
Ryan says PSL’s mission of faith, service, and caring for older adults closely aligns with the values he grew up with, which has been one of the reasons he has remained so committed to the community over the years.
"I want people to know that I took pride in my work and that I genuinely cared about the residents and my fellow team members," he says. "If I can leave this community a little better than I found it, then I’ve done my job."