Jenna Fischer portrays Pam Beesly, the office receptionist who tolerates her boss’ awkward attempts at humor in NBC’s “The Office.”

Born and raised in the suburbs of St. Louis, Missouri, Fischer showed proficiency in both show business and office procedural work. At the age of 10, she snagged the role of Toto in her school play “The Wizard of Oz,” and shortly thereafter she took her first typing class, earning an ‘A.’

After receiving a bachelor of arts degree in theater from Truman State University, Fischer moved to Los Angeles and took various odd jobs to pay the rent including work as a telephone psychic (although she’s not a psychic).

Fischer’s television series credits include guest-starring roles on “That 70s Show,” “Cold Case,” “Six Feet Under,” “Miss Match,” “Strong Medicine,” “What I Like About You,” “Off Centre,” “Undeclared” and “Spin City.” Her feature-film credits include “Employee of the Month,” “Lucky 13,” “The Specials” and “Born Champion” among others.

Fischer recently wrote and directed the feature film “Lollilove,” starring herself, Linda Cardellini (NBC’s “ER”), Judy Greer, and her husband, screenwriter James Gunn. “Lollilove” is currently making the rounds on the film festival circuit. Fischer was awarded the Screen Actors Guild Emerging Actor Award at this year’s St. Louis Film Festival.

Akin to her character Pam -- who has talent as an illustrator--one of Fischer’s hobbies is cartooning. She also volunteers with the animal rescue organization Kitten Rescue as a foster parent for sick and injured cats. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their dog Wesley, and cat. Andy can proudly be seen in the upcoming 2005 Page-a-Day Cat Calendar as Mr. April 7.

Fischer’s birthday is March 7.