Promotions are earned by a status trust, respect, and dedication within the community.
When you receive a staff position, you have received enough support for the opportunity to improve the website in bigger ways. That trust is typically earned in numerous methods and retiring from a position doesn't just make that value of confidence disappear.
He has been registered to Sythe since 2010. That is six years of his life that he has been a part of this community. During six years, a lot of things can change in a person's life. Based on Ryan's previous post, he must have gone to college.
Your question might be better suited for the staff, but I believe that people are promoted when they're recognized as an individual that has the potential to improve the website with an upgraded status. If the administrators feel that someone has earned an upgrade, they will most likely receive it whether or not Ryan is a super mod.
By the way, welcome back Ryan.