Get To Know Us: Jessica Sherman
Name: Jessica Sherman
Title: Founder/President of ACFE
Occupation: Casting Director
Birthday: October 25
Why did you join ACFE?
For me, it wasn’t why I joined, but why I was inspired to start it. I often talk about how my grandmother’s diagnosis was the catalyst for all this, and it was. But before I started ACFE, I participated in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Santa Barbara for 6 years. The first year that I walked, not only did I meet women & men who had mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters who had faced a breast cancer diagnosis, but I also met so many incredible woman who were survivors of the awful disease. In fact, I met a woman who had just had a double mastectomy weeks prior and just finished her treatment. To witness all of the people rally behind and support her not only physically but emotionally as well, on her 40 mile journey ahead was awe-inspiring. Witnessing the support, the aid and the love that was out there, I was galvanized to do more.
Do you have any personal experience with breast cancer?
Not first hand, but my first exposure to breast cancer was when my grandmother was diagnosed when I was 16. It rocked my whole world, because she was my absolute best friend and the thought of losing her or watching her suffer terrified me more than anything.
What is your hope for ACFE?
My hope for ACFE is to grow year to year, not only in terms of how much money we raise but also the number of people we can inspire and support.
What is your favorite thing about ACFE?
My favorite thing about ACFE is meeting new people every year and hearing their incredible stories. And witnessing it become it’s own little community and the excitement we see at the events every year.
What’s your favorite show on TV right now?
Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
What’s your favorite movie?
Oh, where to begin?! I don’t think I can simply pin point one! Sixteen Candles, A Bronx Tale, White Christmas, Star Wars, Vertigo, Sabrina (original), Fight Club, Coco, Anastasia, Double Indemnity, Jurassic Park, Mighty Ducks Franchise, West Side Story, Inception, Bridesmaids, Drop Dead Fred, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Inside Llewyn Davis, Call Me By Your Name, Lady Bird, Get Out, Wonder Woman, The Big Sick, Girls Trip…
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?
Scotland or Ireland. They are the most beautiful countries that I’ve explored, to date. The people are wonderful and I feel like it should be my second home.
What is your nickname?
J Sherm, Shermy, Peaches J. Sherman
Are you a dog or cat person?
I’m a dog person, but I have a cat. Sorry Dobs.
What is your favorite holiday?
Chrismukkah! 😀
Who would play you in a biopic about your life?
I’d love for Emma Stone to do it. I feel like we’re equally awkward.
If you were a flavor of ice cream, what flavor would you be?
Cookie Dough or Pistachio
What is your spirit animal and why?
Either a giraffe or a flamingo. Both are docile animals, who keep to themselves but still stand out in their own way.
If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Lucille Ball. Does she count as a historical figure? Well, I think she does. She’s my idol and I would just want to know her and be friends with her. What a firecracker! Brilliant, funny, talented and an incredibly savvy business woman.
What is your most used emoji?
The nervous face.
What is your favorite video game?
Mortal Kombat
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
It’s good to learn from your mistakes. It’s even better to learn from other people’s mistakes.
What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @jshermy.casting
What is the number one thing on your bucket list?
Travel the world!