NATIONAL ACADEMY OF TELEVISION ARTS & SCIENCES
CHICAGO / MIDWEST CHAPTER
Sara Janz and Roz Varon
Honoring Sara Janz
Beloved wife of Staff Sergeant Darien Jackson. Loving daughter of Roz Varon and Edward Janz. Dear sister of Amy (Neomi Luna) Janz and Brian Janz.
It is with deep sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Sara Janz, a brilliant and beloved young woman, at the age of 29. Sara’s life was far too short, but her leadership, dedication and compassion will long be remembered by those whose lives she touched.
Sara is the daughter of retired ABC-7 traffic/feature reporter Roz Varon and followed in her mom’s footsteps with tireless efforts on behalf of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Sara was instrumental in founding the NATAS Chicago/Midwest Chapter’s Junior Board. It was Sara who recognized the need for a space where younger voices could come together to create meaningful change, and her spirit will continue to guide the junior board’s work for years to come.
A former NATAS Chicago Scholarship recipient, her gratitude for that opportunity never wavered. Through her hard work and dedication, Sara demonstrated the kind of commitment that inspired those around her to strive for excellence. She volunteered her time at countless NATAS events and helped foster an environment where future leaders can thrive. Sara was, above all, a kind and generous person who touched everyone she met with her warmth and intelligence.
Sara’s passing leaves a void, but her legacy of kindness and leadership will never be forgotten. For all who knew her, Sara was a guiding light, and we are forever grateful for the time we had with her.
Wisconsin
2025 Honors Presentation
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Marquette University
1442 Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee
Alumni Memorial Union, Grand Ballroom, 3rd floor
Chicago
2025 Honors Presentation
Friday, May 2, 2025
Chicago Marriott Downtown
Magnificent Mile, 540 N. Michigan, Chicago IL
Chapter Updates
2025 Student Awards
High School: Submissions are open
Deadline: February 21, 2025
2025 Scholarships
First Deadline: February 16, 2025
2024 Student Awards
2024 Emmy® Event
Playlist: Individual Onstage Speeches
Playlist: Individual Post-Win Interviews
2024 In Remembrance Video
2024 Emmy® Event Photos
Chapter Workshops
Topics Include: Social Media and Set Etiquette, The Future of TV News, Safety in the Field, Post-Production; The Importance of Internships, Majoring in Media, etc.
