Penelope Lopez
She has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Rhetorical Studies with a minor in Spanish from Hofstra University on Long Island, New York. Additionally, Penelope also studied communications at the University of Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, and film in Havana, Cuba.
During her senior year of college, she worked at ABC News Live Prime in New York as a booking producer. She secured exclusive interviews with high-profile global leaders, national political figures, White House officials, and social media influencers.
She left New York in 2023 to join KATC-TV3 as an ABC News affiliate reporter in Lafayette, Louisiana. During her time there, she covered local politics and gained an understanding of the importance of building strong relationships with the community, leaders, and officials to cover and report on key issues effectively.
Her goal is to use her storytelling as a means of shedding light on any issues or events impacting local communities. Penelope is passionate about being on the ground, uncovering untold stories that affect marginalized communities.
"I am excited to have the opportunity to report on the communities and culture of Fayetteville."
Penelope is from Long Island, New York. She enjoys trying new local restaurants, going to the movie theaters, and attending concerts.
Penelope's Stories
Take warning: Sandhills Canes fans thick with loyalty, excitement
Win or lose, fans in the Sandhills are united in their support, proudly bleeding red, white, and black for their Hurricanes.
Adolescent mental health services expand at Cape Fear Valley
The Dorothea Dix Adolescent Care unit, a first for Harnett County, will provide specialized treatment for patients ages 12 to 17
Domestic Violence cases drop in Fayetteville, data shows; focus on victims might be why
Domestic violence crimes in Fayetteville have dropped by 21% compared to this time last year, according to new data.
Lee County school board member found dead in NC house fire; cause under investigation
The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.
Some residents irked as Fayetteville proposes property tax increase
The city is considering a 3-cent property tax increase. For the average Fayetteville home, valued at around $226,000, that would mean roughly $68 more per year.
New monument unveiled to honor fallen heroes in Fayetteville, Cumberland County
For curator Don Talbot, a retired veteran, it represents the completion of a vision he first had in the mid-1990s.
Millions expected to hit the road for Memorial Day weekend as gas prices remain high
AAA estimates 39.1 million people will travel by car over the holiday, even as drivers feel the pain at the pump.
Tunnel to Towers brings 5K to Hope Mills to support Gold Star families, first responders
The Tunnel to Towers 5K is coming to Hope Mills this Saturday, supporting fallen military members, first responders and their families.
Gold Star Families gather for annual Memorial at Fort Bragg: 'Gives me great comfort'
The Army Special Operations Command honored the sacrifices of fallen service members Thursday during its annual Remembrance Day ceremony.
Construction crews tackle summer heat; Safety tips for outdoor workers
One construction crew manager says they start their day an hour earlier and schedules more 15- to 30-minute breaks throughout their eight-hour shift.