Educated from Loyola University of Chicago with a B.A. degree in theatre and communications, his career began in the Windy City. He showed initiative even while still a student. During his senior year, when a teacher from another school needed a group of actors to perform at a special program, Mr. Mayo saw an opportunity, and along with several friends, started Mecca Performing Arts Troupe. This acting troupe performed for three years during the Christmas holiday season on the children's theatre circuit.