Sandra Bookman Biography: WABC-TV News Anchor & “Here and Now” Host
Sandra Bookman is a prominent American television journalist and anchor. She is currently a reporter and anchor at WABC-TV in New York City.
She co-anchors the noon weekday editions of Eyewitness News and also co-anchors the 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. weekend editions of Eyewitness News. Additionally, she hosts the public affairs show “Here and Now.”
Bookman is a seasoned journalist with a wealth of experience in the field.
She has covered a wide range of stories, from major breaking news events to in-depth features on local communities.
She is known for her insightful reporting and her ability to connect with viewers.
Bookman has been recognized for her work with several awards, including three Emmy Awards for her reporting on the Olympic Games and the aftermath of the ValueJet Airlines crash in the Everglades.
She has also been honored for her work on the ABC7 community affairs program, “Here and Now.”
Age:
Sandra Bookman was born on October 8, 1959, making her 65 years old as of 2025. She falls under the zodiac sign of Libra. Sandra is of African-American ethnicity and holds American nationality.
Parents and Siblings:
Sandra Bookman was born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, by her parents. While she hasn’t revealed much about her family, it is evident that she is close to them.
Sandra has shared childhood photos with her father and has mentioned her sisters, Bridget, Angela, and Amela, especially on occasions like Mother’s Day.
Husband:
Sandra Bookman is married to Oppio Salvatore. They share a loving and supportive relationship, often seen exchanging affectionate messages on social media.
Sandra frequently expresses her gratitude for Oppio’s unwavering support, especially regarding her professional endeavors.
As for children, Sandra and Oppio do not have any kids together. Sandra has mentioned her sisters, Bridget, Angela, and Amela, in her social media posts, especially on special occasions like Mother’s Day.
Height, Weight:
Sandra Bookman stands at a height of 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters). She has a moderate weight, estimated to be around 130-140 pounds (59-64 kg).
Career and Background:
Sandra Bookman has established herself as a prominent figure in journalism.
She currently co-anchors Eyewitness News on weekends and serves as the host of Here and Now, a public affairs program focusing on issues relevant to the Black community.
Sandra joined WABC-TV in 1998 and has reported extensively on major news events, earning widespread recognition for her work.
Before WABC, she worked at stations including WSB-TV in Atlanta, WTVR in Richmond, and WRAL in Raleigh.
KFDM-TV, Beaumont, Texas
Sandra Bookman embarked on her journalism journey at KFDM-TV in Beaumont, Texas, where she took on the role of a weekend anchor and reporter.
Her early days at KFDM-TV were characterized by a strong work ethic and a determination to establish herself in the field.
Sandra’s ability to report on a wide range of stories with precision and clarity quickly gained her recognition, setting the stage for her future success.
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, North Carolina
Sandra’s career progressed as she moved to WRAL-TV in Raleigh, North Carolina. At WRAL-TV, she served as a weekend anchor, where she continued to build her reputation as a reliable and skilled journalist.
Her work included covering significant local and national news events, allowing her to develop a keen understanding of the nuances of news reporting.
Sandra’s dedication to delivering accurate and engaging news content earned her respect among her colleagues and viewers alike.
WSB-TV, Atlanta, Georgia
One of the most significant phases of Sandra’s career was her tenure at WSB-TV in Atlanta, Georgia, from 1989 to 1998.
As a weekend anchor and reporter, Sandra covered some of the most critical events of the time.
Notably, she served as an Olympic reporter for ABC News, covering the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Her comprehensive coverage of the Olympics, from the initial bids to the aftermath of the Olympic bombing in Atlanta, showcased her exceptional reporting skills and her ability to handle high-pressure situations with grace and professionalism.
Sandra’s efforts were recognized with three Emmy Awards, further cementing her status as a top-tier journalist.
WABC-TV, New York City
In 1998, Sandra joined WABC-TV in New York City, where she continues to be a prominent figure in the news industry.
At WABC-TV, she co-anchors the weekend editions of Eyewitness News and hosts the public affairs show “Here and Now.”
Additionally, Sandra’s role at WABC-TV has allowed her to cover a diverse array of stories, from local community issues to international news.
Her ability to connect with viewers and deliver news with authenticity and depth has also made her a beloved anchor in the New York City area.
One of her notable assignments at WABC-TV was her series of reports from South Africa following the release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990.
Her international reporting has added a global perspective to her work, showcasing her versatility as a journalist.
Sandra Bookman’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to journalism and her ability to excel in a dynamic and demanding field.
Her journey from KFDM-TV to WABC-TV highlights her growth, resilience, and dedication to delivering high-quality news coverage to her audience.
Sandra Bookman has reported on numerous impactful stories throughout her career. Here are a few notable ones:
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Olympic Coverage:
Sandra served as an Olympic reporter for ABC News, covering both the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Her comprehensive coverage of these events, including the aftermath of the Olympic bombing in Atlanta, earned her widespread recognition and three Emmy Awards.
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Valuejet Airlines Crash:
Sandra’s reporting on the aftermath of the Valuejet Airlines crash in the Everglades was another significant achievement in her career. Her dedication to uncovering the truth and providing accurate information to the public showcased her commitment to journalism.
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Nelson Mandela’s Release:
Sandra reported from South Africa following the release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990. Her international reporting provided a unique perspective on this historic event and highlighted the global impact of Mandela’s release.
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Here and Now Stories:
On her show “Here and Now,” Sandra has covered a variety of important stories, including an episode featuring retired NYPD officers who prevented Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthplace from being burned down. She also revisited historic moments for the show’s 10-year anniversary, celebrating the contributions of African American artists and entertainers.
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Jeffrey Deskovic Interview:
Sandra hosted an episode of “Here and Now” featuring Jeffrey Deskovic, who spent 16 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Deskovic’s story of wrongful conviction and eventual exoneration highlighted issues of coerced confessions and the importance of DNA evidence in the justice system.
Awards and Recognitions
Sandra Bookman has received several awards and recognitions throughout her illustrious career, highlighting her exceptional contributions to journalism:
- Emmy Awards: Sandra has won three Emmy Awards for her outstanding reporting. These awards include recognition for her coverage of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and her reporting on the aftermath of the Valuejet Airlines crash in the Everglades.
- Olympic Reporter: Sandra served as an Olympic reporter for ABC News for seven years, covering both the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. She was the only local TV reporter to cover the Atlanta games from the bid until the Olympic bombing in 1996.
- International Reporting: Sandra’s international reporting includes a series of reports from South Africa following the release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990. Her coverage provided a unique perspective on this historic event and showcased her versatility as a journalist.
- Community Affairs Program: Sandra hosts the Emmy Award-nominated public affairs show “Here and Now” on WABC-TV.
- Leadership and Respect: Sandra’s leadership in the newsroom has earned her the respect of her colleagues and viewers. She has been a key figure in the success of Eyewitness News at WABC-TV, where she has been a weekend anchor for over two decades.
Here are some highlights of Sandra Bookman’s notable colleagues at WABC-TV:
- Joe Torres: Co-anchors the weekend editions of Eyewitness News with Sandra Bookman. Known for his in-depth reporting and calm demeanor.
- Jim Dolan: A seasoned reporter at WABC-TV for over 35 years. Renowned for his investigative journalism and human-interest stories.
- Sade Baderinwa: Co-anchors Eyewitness News at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. Known for her strong on-air presence and ability to connect with viewers.
- Bill Ritter: Co-anchors Eyewitness News at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. Noted for his investigative reporting and coverage of major news stories.
- Liz Cho: Co-anchors Eyewitness News at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Recognized for her polished delivery and in-depth news coverage.
- Shirleen Allicot: Co-anchors Eyewitness News This Morning and Eyewitness News at Noon. Celebrated for her engaging reporting style and morning show presence.
- Ken Rosato: Co-anchors Eyewitness News This Morning and Eyewitness News at Noon. Praised for his dynamic anchoring and thorough news coverage.
- Rob Nelson: Reporter and anchor. Recognized for his work on Eyewitness News and his ability to connect with the audience.
- Lee Goldberg: Chief meteorologist for Eyewitness News. Trusted for his accurate weather forecasts and engaging presentation style.
These colleagues have contributed significantly to the success and high-quality news coverage at WABC-TV.
“Here and Now” with Sandra Bookman:
“Here and Now” is a public affairs show on WABC-TV that Sandra Bookman has hosted for several years.
The show is dedicated to covering issues and stories that impact the Black community, providing a platform for important discussions and highlighting achievements within the African-American community.
Each episode delves into a wide range of topics, including:
- Economic Challenges and Opportunities: Sandra interviews experts and community leaders to discuss economic disparities, employment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at improving economic conditions for African-Americans.
- Educational Advancements and Issues: The show explores topics related to education, from addressing the achievement gap to showcasing successful educational programs and initiatives that benefit Black students.
- Health and Wellness: Sandra highlights health issues affecting the Black community, discussing topics such as access to healthcare, mental health, and preventative measures. She brings in healthcare professionals and advocates to share valuable insights.
- Black Culture and Contributions: “Here and Now” celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the African-American community. Sandra features artists, entertainers, and cultural events that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Black culture.
- Community Activism and Leadership: The show provides a platform for community activists, grassroots organizations, and elected leaders to discuss their work and the impact of their efforts on the community. Sandra’s interviews bring attention to important social justice issues and community initiatives.
The podcast version of “Here and Now” offers extended interviews and bonus content, allowing listeners to dive deeper into the discussions and gain more in-depth perspectives.
Additionally, Sandra’s thoughtful and engaging approach as the host has made the show a valuable resource for viewers and listeners seeking to understand and address the challenges and achievements within the African-American community.
Net Worth and Salary:
Sandra Bookman’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million.
Additionally, This wealth has been accumulated through her long and successful career in journalism, spanning over three decades.
Her annual salary at WABC-TV ranges from $40,000 to $110,500, with some sources estimating it around $105,637.
Sandra’s financial success can be attributed to her dedication to her craft, her numerous awards and recognitions, and her ability to connect with viewers.
Her career milestones, such as winning three Emmy Awards and serving as an Olympic reporter, have also contributed significantly to her net worth.
Is Sandra Bookman Married?
Yes, Sandra Bookman is married. Her husband is Oppio Salvatore. They share a loving and supportive relationship, often seen exchanging affectionate messages on social media.
How Old Is Sandra Bookman?
Sandra Bookman was born on October 8, 1959, which makes her 65 years old as of 2025.
Where Is Sandra Bookman Working At?
Sandra Bookman is currently working at WABC-TV in New York City. She holds multiple roles at the station:
- Co-anchor of the Weekend Editions of Eyewitness News: Sandra co-anchors the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. weekend editions of Eyewitness News.
- Host of “Here and Now”: Sandra hosts the public affairs show “Here and Now,” which covers a wide range of community and public interest stories.
- Noon Anchor: Sandra recently took on the role of co-anchor for the noon weekday edition of Eyewitness News, alongside David Novarro.
Her diverse roles at WABC-TV highlight her versatility and dedication to delivering high-quality news coverage.
Sandra Bookman is active on social media. She can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, where she often shares updates about her work, personal life, and interactions with her husband, Savio Oppio.
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