OUR
FOUNDER
I didn't want to just talk about making a difference.
Founder of The Performance Academy, Kathryn McAvoy talks about how the dream became a reality 15 years ago.
It all started with teaching her.
In 2009, Kathryn McAvoy made an intentional decision to give back to the next generation of creatives, recognizing the transformative power of the arts in shaping young lives. As a mother of three daughters, Kathryn understood the enormous responsibility of nurturing creativity, particularly through her experience raising her daughter, Ava, who built a successful career in the entertainment industry and traveled the world as an international fashion model.
Motivated by a deep desire to provide access to the arts for those who lacked opportunity, Kathryn founded The Performance Academy, Inc. (TPA). A serial social entrepreneur, she has successfully led ventures in the business sector, working with national sports teams, launching a digital media agency, and spearheading television, filmmaking, and workforce mentorship projects.
Now, in its 15th year, Kathryn is leading TPA into a bold new direction, expanding its reach from local communities to a broader citywide and international scale. In 2024, she appointed award-winning filmmaker, author, and creative visionary DeShaun Davis to take the helm as Director of Operations. Together, they have redefined TPA’s focus and launched plans to expand into multiple counties with an enhanced range of programs under the Artistic Elements initiative.
As 2025 unfolds, TPA is experiencing tremendous growth, solidifying its place as a leading force in arts education, mentorship, and creative empowerment. The best is yet to come!