LAS VEGAS– Gallaudet University Associate Athletic Director for Communications
Sam Atkinson was one of six individuals inducted into the College Sports Communicators Hall of Fame Class of 2026 during a ceremony held Monday night, June 8, at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Convention Center.
CSC President Patrick Crawford and ESPN broadcaster Holly Rowe presented Atkinson with his Hall of Fame plaque and joined him for photos during the ceremony. Following the presentation, Atkinson delivered an acceptance speech alongside Rowe.
Atkinson, a 19-year veteran in the sports communications profession, is entering his 16th year at Gallaudet University, the world's only university designed to be fully accessible for Deaf and hard of hearing students, serving as a leader and storyteller for Bison Athletics. During his tenure, he has played a central role in elevating the visibility of Gallaudet student-athletes and programs on the national stage, helping to share stories rooted in access, inclusion, and opportunity. That work includes national and international media exposure surrounding Gallaudet Athletics initiatives such as the groundbreaking AT&T 5G Helmet project, which highlighted Deaf innovation and accessibility in college football.
"I was honored to be inducted into the College Sports Communicators Hall of Fame in June 2026," said Atkinson. "When I attended my first CSC convention years ago, I didn't know anyone and never imagined this moment. That's why my final message wasn't about accomplishments. It was about opening doors. I hope my journey serves as a reminder that leaders can come from any division, any campus, and any background. Keep showing up. Keep getting involved. You never know where that first opportunity might lead."
Atkinson joined Gallaudet in 2009 and currently serves as Associate Athletic Director for Communications, a role he has held since 2017 after previously serving as assistant athletic director and sports information director. His career in athletics communications began at his alma mater, Salisbury University, where he worked from 2006-09.
In addition to his work at Gallaudet, Atkinson has been a national leader within CSC. He served on the CSC Board of Directors beginning in 2015 and was elected President for the 2020–21 term, becoming only the second individual from an NCAA Division III institution to lead the organization in its history. He also chaired the CSC Goodwill and Wellness Committee for eight years, helping to establish long-standing initiatives that emphasize community service, volunteerism, and professional well-being across the membership.
Atkinson has also been deeply involved in national governance through the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), serving on NCAA Division III championship committees for men's basketball and women's volleyball. In both roles, he made history as the first athletics communicator to chair those national committees. He is currently a participant in the NCAA Pathway Program, a yearlong leadership development initiative designed to prepare senior administrators for athletic director and conference commissioner roles.
The other members of the class include Kelly Bird (Lindfield University), Jerry Emig (The Ohio State University), Dee Outlaw (West Alabama University), Kevin Trainor (University of Arkansas) and Steve White (Western Carolina University).
Established in 1969, the CSC Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made sustained and outstanding contributions to the field of intercollegiate athletics communications. With the 2026 class, 266 individuals will have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, with honorees permanently recognized at the NCAA Hall of Champions in Indianapolis.
CSC Executive Director
Jason Yaman said, "
Sam Atkinson's induction into the College Sports Communicators Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of a career defined by excellence, service, and leadership. In addition to his outstanding contributions to our profession, Sam has dedicated countless hours to advancing CSC through his service on the Board of Directors, culminating in his presidency during the 2020–21 year. His thoughtful leadership, unwavering commitment to our members, and passion for mentoring the next generation have left a lasting impact on our organization. We are proud to recognize Sam's extraordinary contributions and congratulate him on this well-deserved honor."
Kelly Bird, a fellow 2026 College Sports Communicators Hall of Fame inductee, said, "Few sports communications professionals bring the heart, dedication, and professionalism that
Sam Atkinson shows in his work every day. He is selfless, genuinely collaborative, and widely respected, having represented the NCAA and Division III on numerous committees while also serving a term as President of the College Sports Communicators. Above all, Sam is a trusted colleague, a valued mentor and a true ambassador for Gallaudet University and college athletics."
Kevin Trainor, a fellow 2026 CSC Hall of Fame inductee, said, "
Sam Atkinson is a recognized leader in college sports communications. Serving College Sports Communicators in a variety of roles, including as CSC president, Sam's influence has extended beyond Gallaudet to the very profession he loves. His dedication and expertise have helped tell the stories of student-athletes, coaches and fans in a way that connects with others. He is a friend and a valued colleague. His induction into the CSC Hall of Fame was well deserved and reflects the impact he has made in a remarkable career."
Steve White, a fellow 2026 CSC Hall of Fame inductee, said, "I am honored to have been inducted into the CSC Hall of Fame the same evening as Sam. I have always appreciated the special people at Gallaudet...especially someone as dedicated as Sam. He is indeed a credit to our profession and Gallaudet."
Penn State Harrisburg Director of Athletic Communications
Thomas Klemick said, "
Sam Atkinson has long been a role model in our industry, having set a tremendous standard many of us can only hope to emulate one day. His success in every endeavor he's undertaken, whether at the institutional, conference, regional, or national level, is a credit to his talent, vision, and work ethic. As an athletic communicator, he's as good as they come, and his remarkable track record speaks for itself. As a peer, you could not ask for a more friendly, collaborative, or experienced colleague to work with. But I admire him most as a human being. Despite late nights and long hours shaping and sharing stories of countless student-athletes during a decades-long career, Sam has always been willing to help and support others in our field in any way he can. I consider myself lucky to have crossed paths with him for the first time 15 years ago. I am even more grateful to call him a friend to this day. I could not be happier for him, as there is no one more deserving of induction into the CSC Hall of Fame."
Penn State Brandywine Associate Athletic Director- Communications/Compliance
Jeff Scarpone said, "Congratulations to
Sam Atkinson on his induction into the CSC Hall of Fame. Sam is one of the great leaders and difference makers in our field. He has spent his career celebrating and publicizing the many great accomplishments of Gallaudet's student-athletes and teams, while also serving as a leader within CSC, and is well-deserving of this tremendous honor."
Also see:
