Stan Atkinson, a longtime Sacramento news anchor and reporter, died on Sunday at age 92, his son confirmed. Atkinson was known for his work at KCRA and KOVR and for covering important international conflict zones including Afghanistan, El Salvador, and Somalia. Alongside his global reporting, he remained dedicated to local issues, including fundraising for the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial, marking a career that combined both community involvement and international journalism.
Atkinson’s career earned him three Emmy awards for international reporting. These awards marked key achievements during his time in the news industry, as stated by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. In addition to his work in journalism, Atkinson was involved in local philanthropy. His foundation supported projects like the Sacramento River Cats Independence Field, which provides services for individuals with disabilities, as reported by ABC10,
Atkinson was a longtime journalist known for anchoring the first live election coverage and advancing live satellite broadcasts. Jennifer Whitney, KOVR co-anchor from 1994 to 1999, said, "He was supremely talented and an excellent journalist. He was also a kind, generous human who made whatever community he was around—friends, coworkers, viewers, fundraisers, events—a special place to be," as mentioned by KCRA. He was involved in the community, serving on multiple boards. Although his career took him to various locations, he returned to Sacramento, where he was a familiar news anchor for many years.
