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
Human remains found in woods near Fayetteville homes: 'Just shocked'
The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office is investigating after deputies found human remains in the 1300 block of Deep Creek Road.
Most traumatic brain injuries in Iran war involve US Army troops, report says
653 U.S. troops have been wounded since the conflict began, according to the Defense Department.
New Ukrainian drone company to bring jobs to Cumberland County
Officials say the move will spark a new wave of defense innovation and high-tech job growth in the Sandhills region.
Fort Bragg's All American Gate closes for up to 2 years; drivers, businesses impacted
The closure is forcing thousands of drivers to find alternative routes to work.
Fort Bragg welcomes Colonel Luke Wittmer as new Garrison Commander
Fort Bragg is under new leadership following a traditional change of command ceremony on Friday.
When military members get killed, Chaplains, Casualty Officers provide support to grieving families
140 chaplains and 70 casualty assistance officers at Fort Bragg stand ready to support military families facing loss.
Fort Bragg soldier, devoted Fayetteville dad killed disposing of downed Iranian drone in Iraq
Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton was killed in action during the disposal of a downed Iranian one-way attack drone in Iraq.
Fort Bragg soldier from Hawaii killed defending Iran ballistic missile, drone attacks in Jordan
1st Lt. Feehan was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 32nd Army Air Missile Defense Command at Fort Bragg.
Spring Lake to receive state funding to improve water system
Residents in Spring Lake, a town long plagued by water issues and rising utility costs, expressed a mix of frustration and guarded optimism as news of the funding spread.
New tiny home community set for homeless veterans in Fayetteville
"Our veterans have put their lives on the line for us, for everyone. And we need to make sure that they're taken care of."