Cassandra Hesseltine ('96, Psychology) is a visionary leader whose passion for storytelling, performance, and community has helped transform California’s North Coast into a world-class filming destination. 

As the Humboldt-Del Norte County Film Commissioner since 2010, Hesseltine has played a vital role in creating economic opportunities by attracting film and commercial productions to the redwoods, helping to create jobs, and stimulating the local economy with outside investment.

Before stepping into her role as film commissioner, Hesseltine spent decades immersed in theater, television, and film across California. Her diverse background in the entertainment industry—rooted in both performance and behind-the-scenes production—has provided her with the insight and expertise necessary to support and guide filmmakers through the process of filming in Humboldt and Del Norte counties. 

Hesseltine has played a crucial role in bringing hundreds of creative visions to life on the North Coast. From commercials and magazine shoots to independent films such as “Swiss Army Man” and “Bird Box,” as well as major studio productions like Disney’s “A Wrinkle in Time” and the most recently, Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” which brought Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio to film scenes near campus in early 2024. 

Her leadership has not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Hesseltine was named a 2022 Distinguished Alumni, and in 2019, her work on “A Wrinkle in Time” earned her a spot as one of five finalists for Outstanding Film Commission by the Location Managers Guild International.

For Hesseltine, being awarded a Distinguished Alumni holds deep personal meaning.

“I was humbled and couldn't wait to share it with my parents, who supported me all through college. As the first to graduate from college in the family, it's an even bigger moment to now be given this award. I was very honored to be recognized,” Hesseltine says. 

Hesseltine’s deep connection to Humboldt traces back to her days as a student. Originally from Westminster, Orange County, she arrived at Cal Poly Humboldt with a wide range of academic interests—including astronomy, environmental studies, and psychology—but quickly found her calling in the arts and psychology. 

She designed her own emphasis in theater as therapy for at-risk youth, combining psychology with the transformative power of performance. She also earned a minor in computer programming, showcasing her diverse academic interests.

“Humboldt showed me how big the world was, how history had shaped it, and how we could be a part of the future of it. It opened my eyes to dreaming big and giving back. It rewarded me when I focused and encouraged me to be creative and think outside the box. All of this has shaped my career immensely,” Hesseltine says.

When asked about her fondest memories as a student, her answer comes without hesitation. “My favorite memories at Humboldt involve all my amazing friends I met while I was a student. From my first director in the theater department, who is still one of my besties after 34 years, to my study buddy in psychology classes who’s now my go-to for life’s biggest challenges and celebrations,” Hesseltine says. “I realize now that I was building the foundation for the rest of my life while at Humboldt. Not to mention, I met the father of my children at Humboldt, and for that, I will be forever grateful.”

That lasting connection to her alma mater continues to shape her life and work. In Spring 2025, Hesseltine returned to campus in a meaningful way: as the Alumni Representative for Commencement, where she encouraged graduating students to live their lives as if they were directing the best movie possible. 

(Photo: Cassandra Hesseltine at Spring 2025 Commencement) 

Today, in addition to her work with the film commission, Hesseltine holds a Project Management certification from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She is also a trained mediator and a graduate of the Cascadia Leadership Program. Hesseltine currently serves as the Vice President of Film Liaisons in California, which comprises over 40 Film Commission offices across the state, and she has previously held the position of President as well. She is a committed community member who has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local nonprofits and has served as the board president of a transitional home for individuals recovering from addiction.

Her latest initiatives—like the launch of the Forest Moon Festival, the development of a local Museum of Cinema, and a film tourism app—demonstrate her unwavering dedication to blending art, economy, and community. Through her work, Hesseltine continues to champion creativity, build regional pride, and shine a spotlight on the beauty and talent of California’s North Coast.