Here is the internal memo that went out to the staff at ABC O&O KFSN in Fresno:

From: Ortiz, Martin
Subject: Sara Sandrik -VP/News Director

Team,

I am very excited to announce that Sara Sandrik has been promoted to VP/News Director.

Sara is a people-focused newsroom leader, committed to elevating those around her. Her two decades of experience as a reporter, anchor and newsroom manager combined with her knowledge of the Fresno DMA make her the ideal leader for the Action News team. I know Sara’s award-winning storytelling, compassion and creativity will help ensure Action News remains Central California’s #1 News.

As Manager of News and Content at Action News since 2020, she has played a key role in guiding our station's coverage of significant local stories, including destructive wildfires, historic flooding, and crucial elections. Over the past four years, Sara has also executive-produced the top-rated evening newscasts in Central California and has been instrumental in launching and growing KFSN's newest newscast, Live at Three.

Before then, Sara held the position of North Valley Bureau Chief and weekend anchor at our station, covering a diverse range of stories, from natural disasters to high-profile court cases. She has received commendations from both community members and colleagues for her strong ethics and compassion, which enabled her to secure several exclusive stories as families sought her help during their challenging times. Sara has been recognized with three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement with KFSN.

And, in case you weren’t aware, Sara began her career as an intern and production assistant at KGO-TV, our sister station in San Francisco.

Prior to joining the team in Fresno, Sara was a reporter, producer, and anchor at KYMA in Yuma, Arizona. During that time, she covered President George W. Bush's visit to the U.S./Mexico border, interviewed Senator John McCain, and even went skydiving twice for stories with the Army's Golden Knights. She also earned an Edward R. Murrow Award for coverage of a Harrier jet that crashed into a neighborhood but did not cause any casualties.

Sara understands the power of Action News and how to deliver the breaking news, weather, and community storytelling our viewers depend on every day. As our next VP/News Director, I am confident Sara will continue to grow our audiences to new heights.

Please join me in congratulating Sara on this much-deserved promotion!

Thank you,

Martin
Martin Ortiz
President and General Manager | ABC30/KFSN-TV Central California