Dr. Cathy L. Howard’s journey from a young dreamer in East St. Louis to the founder of an entertainment empire exemplifies the power of perseverance, faith, and vision. As the creator of aCHANGE Universe Studios, Dr. Cathy has dedicated her life to empowering aspiring entertainers from all walks of life. Her mission is simple yet profound: to help ordinary people discover and nurture their extraordinary talents. Through her work, she has created a platform where dreamers of all ages, races, and backgrounds can thrive in the entertainment industry.
The Roots of Dr. Cathy’s Dream
Dr. Cathy’s connection to the arts began in her childhood. Growing up in East St. Louis, Illinois, she was surrounded by influential figures who would go on to leave a lasting impact on music and entertainment. She fondly recalls the days when Tina Turner, at the height of her early career, would visit her family’s home, where her mother worked as a hairstylist. Dr. Cathy’s mother often styled Turner’s hair, and these close encounters with a future legend left an indelible mark on Dr. Cathy’s aspirations.
The music-filled streets of her youth inspired Dr. Cathy, and her connection to greatness continued into the 1980s. In Washington Park, Illinois, she lived near Reginald Hudlin, a visionary director and producer known for films like House Party and Boomerang. These early experiences, alongside the stories of her late parents, fueled Dr. Cathy’s belief that she was destined for a career in the arts.
The Power of Perseverance
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Cathy L Howard / www.pcasuniversity.com
Dr. Cathy’s journey was not without obstacles. Personal hardships, including a difficult childhood and the lack of formal education, challenged her dream of becoming an actress. At 16, she left home to pursue acting, but the harsh reality of the industry soon became clear. Without a strong foundation, her ambitions seemed out of reach. However, Dr. Cathy’s determination led her to earn her high school diploma at 20, a milestone reinforcing her belief that “All Things Are Possible.”
Despite setbacks, Dr. Cathy’s passion for the arts never wavered. She transitioned her energy into helping others find their own creative voices. Her stage plays, All I Need and Issues, focused on empowering local youth, helping them escape street violence and find purpose through the arts. Her work caught the attention of juvenile systems, women’s shelters, and community organizations, cementing her place as a leader in the fight to change lives through creative expression.
The Birth of aCHANGE Universe Studios
In 2011, Dr. Cathy’s pursuit of acting took her to Atlanta, where she saw the potential to rekindle her dream. While auditioning, she noticed a gap in the industry: many aspiring actors lacked proper training, and the audition process was too competitive for true talent to shine. With only $50 to her name, Dr. Cathy turned to prayer for guidance, and it was then that she heard the words that would shape the future of aCHANGE Universe Studios: “If It Doesn’t Meet the Need, It Must Be the Seed.”
This powerful message inspired Dr. Cathy to create a comprehensive acting curriculum bridging the gap between untrained talent and industry success. Her “Pressure Cooker with Ms. Cathy” boot camp became the cornerstone of her work, offering rigorous training designed to prepare aspiring actors for stardom. Dr. Cathy’s commitment to the development of others led her to teach her first student in a humble one-bedroom apartment. This small beginning eventually blossomed into a platform for discovering talent on a global scale.
Revolutionizing the Entertainment Industry
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Cathy L Howard / www.pockochannel.com
Today, Dr. Cathy’s vision has come to fruition by establishing aCHANGE Universe Studios, a multifaceted entertainment empire that includes motion pictures, music labels, television production, and educational programs. The studio is home to several networks, including TACTV, POCKO Channel, and aCHANGE Broadcast Network. These platforms provide aspiring entertainers with a space to showcase their talents, whether actors, singers, dancers, or models.
In addition to its entertainment networks, aCHANGE Universe Studios is committed to nurturing talent through its educational initiatives. PCAS University, a Character Development University founded by Dr. Cathy, offers intensive training in the performing arts. The university’s Fine Arts Development Program prepares students for acting, singing, dancing, and more careers, giving them the skills to thrive in a competitive industry.
The studio is also known for its emphasis on diversity, providing opportunities for talent from all backgrounds. Dr. Cathy’s commitment to inclusivity ensures aspiring entertainers can access the resources and guidance they need to succeed. Through her work, she aims to provide a fair platform for all talents to be recognized, regardless of their background or circumstances.
A Lasting Legacy
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Cathy L Howard
Dr. Cathy L. Howard’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. Through aCHANGE Universe Studios, she has created a space where ordinary people with extraordinary talents can find the tools and support they need to succeed. Her life’s work inspires those who dare to dream, and her studio remains a beacon of hope for future entertainers.
As a leader in the entertainment industry, Dr. Cathy’s influence is far-reaching. She has impacted the world of television and film, and her dedication to uplifting others will continue to shape the industry’s future. Through aCHANGE Universe Studios, Dr. Cathy demonstrates that even the most ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things with the right opportunities.
For more information, visit:
Email: info@acunistudios.com
Media contact: 6786513664
Published by: Nelly Chavez
