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
Raleigh, Atlanta added to expanded bus routes, new 'Pine Line' service in Fayetteville
NCDOT has added new intercity bus routes departing from Fayetteville, including a new service dubbed "Pine Line."
Zion Gibbs' mom reacts to judge granting bond to her son's accused killer: 'I'm angry'
The mother of 7-year-old Zion Gibbs described the judge's decision as a gut punch.
School rallies to support students after Douglas Byrd bus wreck
Douglas Byrd's principal said his top priority is to ensure everyone affected by the crash receives the support they need.
Fayetteville State awarded nearly $17 million in NC's $34.4B budget; here's how it helps students
For the second-oldest Historically Black College and University in NC, the funding represents more than just dollars.
Family shares pain after boy dies in apartment fire started by illegal firework; Neighbor charged
Dunn police confirm a 7-year-old died, his father and another tenant were seriously injured in the apartment fire.
7-year-old dies in apartment fire in NC; Over a dozen tenants displaced in Dunn
Property managers say that fireworks may have led to the fire
Music, fireworks and heat: Fayetteville prepares for busy Fourth of July celebration
The annual event at Festival Park is designed to bring the community together through live music, patriotic pride and a focus on safety.
Cape Fear Valley Health layoffs leave 138 employees searching for work
Cape Fear Valley Health employs more than 9,000 people. Officials said about 2% of staff at each hospital were impacted.
Waterfalls go from flowing to a trickle due to drought; Wildlife stressed, plants struggling
"I'm noticing the plants are drying out, the animals seem stressed, I'm seeing more birds visiting puddles to get water"
NC nonprofits donate beds to veterans, highlighting need for comfort and care
The beds were distributed during a special event held Thursday morning, where organizers and volunteers gathered to recognize the veterans' service and present the donations.