Cassandra Hesseltine (‘96, Psychology) is a trailblazer in the world of film as the current Humboldt-Del Norte County Film Commissioner. Since 2010, she has been instrumental in creating temporary jobs in the region while stimulating the economy with outside dollars by assisting film productions in shooting among the redwoods.

Before becoming commissioner, she spent decades working in theatre, TV, and film throughout California, gaining extensive experience in the entertainment business.

Hesseltine facilitated the creation of captivating films, magazine photoshoots, print ads, TV shows, and commercials within Humboldt and Del Norte counties. She assisted in countless projects filmed in the region, like Swiss Army Man and Bird Box, and big-budget studio productions, such as A Wrinkle in Time.

Hesseltine has gained respect and accolades from industry professionals within the local region she represents, the state, and worldwide.

In 2015, as a Film Liaisons In California Statewide (FLICS) member, she worked to expand California’s TV and Film tax incentive program, helping California remain the top production center in the world. For three years, she served as the President of FLICS, showcasing her profound expertise and dedication. Additionally, she holds certification as a film commissioner from the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI).

In 2017, she won Woman of Distinction, presented by the Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center at the Fourth Annual Women in Business Luncheon. In the fall of 2019, she was one of five finalists for Outstanding Film Commission in the world for Location Manager Guild International’s award show for her work on A Wrinkle in Time.