Lopez earned her Ph.D. in public health from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and her master’s in public health from the University of Washington, Seattle. Prior to joining UAF in 2009, Lopez was instrumental in establishing the University of Florida’s College of Public Health and Health Professions.

As a public health trained professional with expertise in community-based participatory research, Lopez’ research, teaching, service and leadership engage community stakeholders in addressing priority concerns towards enhancing well-being, quality of life, social justice and sustainability.