Beth Dilley
Co-Founder, President
Beth was born in Butler Pennsylvania, relocated to New York, and spent several years living in Virginia and Atlanta Georgia prior to moving to Florida for an employment opportunity. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Kennesaw State University has her real estate broker license, and a CAM license, and is a certified facilitator and mediator. Beth has over 20 years of executive management experience working in an array of industries; hospitality, manufacturing, banking, and insurance. Always reporting to the CEO of the companies, Beth obtained the confidence and drive to become an entrepreneur and opened Ascendia Group in 2010. Originally starting as a Real Estate company quickly diversified to a property management company, which manages both vacation and annual rentals. When Beth is not working, she is exercising, loves to cook, travels nationally and internationally, gardens, and enjoys a fine glass of cabernet sauvignon with her husband Andy at the end of the day.
Andy Olwert
Co-Founder Ascendia Group
Andy is a graduate of Florida State University with a major in Risk Entrepreneur. He is almost a Florida native since he moved to Florida when he was 5 years of age. After working for major insurance companies, regulators, and commercial agencies, Andy decided to create a company that encompassed three entities, a TPA, a Managed Care Company, and an MGA. Starting with two employees he grew the company to over 300 employees and 40 million in premiums. Andy is a major FSU football fan and enjoys golfing and exploring different wine regions nationally and internationally.
Tristen Szalbirak
Office Manager
Tristen is originally from Fort Myers. She holds a Florida Real Estate License. Tristen is an integral part of the management team, working in both disciplines of Ascendia Group; Ascendia Real Estate and Ascendia Property Management. Tristen is responsible for contracts, bookkeeping, marketing, sales, recruitment, software, and office facilities. She is Ascendia’s “Glue”! Tristen successfully bonds several sides of our organization to function as one unit. Her positive energy combined with her ability to stay calm in challenging situations has earned her respect and is appreciated by the Ascendia Team. When Tristen is not working, she and her husband Brentyn are on the hunt for the perfect craft cocktail.
Lisa Rigas
Marketing Director
Lisa is originally from Chicago, Illinois. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Elmhurst College, studied International Business at Anatolia GREECE, and holds her Florida Real Estate License. Lisa is the marketing arm of Ascendia. She is responsible for marketing and brand strategy, copywriting, digital marketing, social media campaigns, internet marketing, website design, channel distribution, and SEO optimization. When Lisa is not working, she is an athlete running marathons, competing in triathlons, biking the Legacy Trail, and swimming at the YMCA. Lisa has 3 amazing children and somehow finds time to volunteer at the Sixteen Hands Horse Sanctuary. Lisa is Ascendia’s Wonder Woman.
Lauren Werfelman
Sales and Service
Lauren is originally from Redding Connecticut. She graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations. Initially, Lauren was hired as an administrative assistant but was promoted to sales and service after a short period of time. Lauren cannot sleep if a property is vacant. She spends half of her day accepting reservations and calling leads. The other half is spent making sure properties are in pristine condition.
When Lauren is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband Billy, and her dog Elle. When time permits you will find Lauren kayaking the shoreline of Sarasota.
Keith Inman
Property Management Sales and Service
Keith Inman spent his entire career in the nonprofit sector, managing local and national foundations, including the philanthropic arm of the University of Louisville for several years. Keith worked with high-net-worth individuals and families, helping them achieve their life and philanthropic goals.
Keith graduated from the University of Louisville with a BA in Biology and holds a real estate license in the State of Florida. He is married with two sons and one grandson.
Nick Esposito
Maintenance Manager
Nick is originally from Boston Massachusetts where he worked in the family business running 10 Italian bakeries. Our clients and investors refer to Nick as “Saint Nick”. He earned the name by providing above-and-beyond customer service. There isn’t anything Nick can’t tackle. He knows when to be hands-on and he knows when to contact one of our talented vendors. Prior to joining Ascendia, Nick owned and operated a successful hardscape business in Texas. When Nick is not working, you will find him on his boat, fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Sarasota Bay.
Yelena Kozachuk
Weekend Warrior
Yelena is originally from the former Soviet Union. Her story of migrating from the Soviet Union to eventually Chicago Illinois is one you will want her to share. Yelena is responsible for guest services on the weekend. She welcomes our guests and inspects properties prior to their arrival. She is a perfectionist! Additionally, Yelena will troubleshoot any maintenance challenges on the weekends. When she is not working, Yelena loves to go shopping, she has the honor of being Ascendia’s best-dressed employee. Yelena values her time with her husband Zack as they discover new and interesting restaurants in Sarasota.