Atkinson, a six-time ACC track champion, joined the Emory staff in Fall 2000.

Atkinson, a 1999 graduate of the University of Maryland, won the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) indoor and outdoor championships in both hammer and 20-pound weight throws events from 1996-1998. She was named to the ACC all-conference track and field team all four years. During her tenure at Maryland, Atkinson also served as a team captain from 1997-1999.

Atkinson coaches the throwing events for the Emory track squads.