Jesse is considered by some to be a veteran of the film festival industry having attended numerous large international, national and local festivals. Jesse has participated, lectured at, and has proudly won several film festival awards for his work as an actor, as well as for his own film that he wrote and directed.

Having a passion for independent film, Jesse has served as a member of an advisory board for the Cinema Arts Centre, an independent film house. Jesse shared his passion for “independent film” with a younger generation by creating his own “independent film house movie review” club where he exposed teens to films that Jesse personally selected and led corresponding discussions.  Jesse continues his studies as a student at Yale University where he founded and serves as President of the Yale Arts Film and Television Association (“YAFTA”).

With his unwavering passion for filmmaking, Jesse sought to create the Fire Island Film Festival as a not for profit organization to create opportunities for filmmakers and actors to come together to share their story and to recognize their accomplishments.

As the Fire Island Film Festival grows as a platform for young filmmakers of all diverse background to come together to share their passion for film, Jesse will ensure that it always remembers to give back to its members and to the community at large

Jesses favorite saying “Eat. Sleep. Make Movies. Repeat.” is the constant force that drives the Fire Island Film Festival.