Veteran Reporter Steps Away From CNN After Two Decades

Stephanie Elam, a long‑time voice on CNN, has announced she will leave the network after more than 20 years of covering a wide range of stories. The former Los Angeles‑based correspondent shared her decision on social media, thanking viewers for the chance to witness history unfold. She has not yet revealed what she plans to do next, but her message was clear: she is proud of a career that spanned live broadcasts, taped segments, and in‑depth reporting. CNN responded with praise for Elam’s contributions. The network highlighted her ability to bring clarity and credibility to every piece she worked on, noting that her talent for connecting with audiences made her a trusted figure. The statement also expressed gratitude for her years of service and wished her success in whatever comes next.Elam’s time at CNN was split into two distinct periods. She first joined the network in 2003 as a business correspondent based in New York, reporting on market shifts and major events such as the passing of Michael Jackson. After a brief period at KNBC, she returned to CNN in 2013 and went on to cover stories like the eruption of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano and the death of Prince. Before her long tenure at CNN, Elam cut her teeth in journalism as a copy editor for Dow Jones Newswires. She later moved to Bridge News, where she reported on corporate earnings for PBS’s “Nightly Business Report” and hosted the web program “Market on the Close. ” She also anchored the syndicated show “First Business” and co‑hosted “Black Enterprise Report, ” building a reputation for sharp analysis and clear communication. Elam’s departure comes amid other changes at CNN, including the earlier exit of anchor Rahel Solomon. While her future plans remain unannounced, Elam’s legacy as a versatile and respected journalist is firmly established.