KGTV News Director Joel Davis announced Thursday that 10News anchor Steve Atkinson will join Kimberly Hunt in co-anchoring the 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts.

"Steve has proven his ability behind the anchor desk," Davis said. "His exceptional reporting skills as well as his energy and authenticity have garnered the respect of viewers." Atkinson and Hunt currently anchor 10News at 7 p.m., the fastest growing evening newscast in San Diego.

"We have a great team at 10News," Atkinson said, "and I believe our success at 7 p.m. is an indication that people are starting to notice the positive changes we’ve made in our news." Atkinson has been an active participant in those changes, which include more enterprise reporting on major San Diego issues and a newscast that is delivered straightforward and to the point.

"Steve’s style is perfect for a newscast that doesn’t waste your time," Davis continued. "He has the unique ability to tell a story through the voice of accuracy, fairness, curiosity, diligence and integrity. He is someone you want to invite into your home every evening and he clearly has a genuine love of news."

Since joining 10News in 2006, Atkinson has received multiple EMMY Awards for his reports. This year he is nominated for an EMMY for a documentary on the drug violence raging in Mexico. He has also been recognized with a prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in reporting.

Atkinson will join Hunt on the anchor desk Begining Thursday evening.