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PAULA LOPEZ; ANCHORWOMAN
by Susan Campbell
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What began as a college internship at KEYT-TV blossomed into a career in broadcast journalism for news anchor Paula Lopez.
Since graduating from the University of California at Santa Barbara, Lopez has spent nearly two decades reporting for the Central Coast and Los Angeles markets. Her awards include honors from the Hispanic Achievement Council and the Minorities in Broadcasting Training Program,plus industry accolades ranging from a Golden Mike to an Associated Press Award to an Emmy.
As the telegenic anchor of KEYT’s broadcasts at 6, 6:30, and 11 p.m., Lopez delivers the news with warm sincerity and cool professionalism. Her greatest satisfaction at work comes from reporting breaking stories. She’s covered earthquakes, floods, fi res, riots, and a litany of other disasters. “Whenever I am able to deliver life-saving information to viewers,” she says, “it makes me very proud of my profession.”
When Lopez began her career in the 1980s, few Latinas graced the airwaves. Lopez credits former news anchor and fellow Latina Giselle Fernandez, her initial role model and mentor, with opening doors for her. In return, Lopez promised to do the same for future Latinas entering the field.
"I think it's important for a news station to reflect the diversity of the community it serves," she says. "I am happy to say there are many more Latinas in the industry now."
Reporter Regina Ruiz joined the station in March 2006. “Paula’s one of the reasons I chose to join the KEYT team,” she says. Ruiz hoped that working with a "strong, experienced, and successful Latina" like Lopez would yield opportunities for growth.
The rewards of Lopez's career, however, take a backseat to the pride she takes in her family. She and her husband, Superior Court Judge Frank Ochoa, have three children at home: 11-year-old Diego and 8-year-old twins Alana and Olivia.
Her desire to set a good example for her children—and to support the Santa Barbara community—inspire her to take an active role in public service. Her ties to the community reach back through nine generations to Lt. Pablo Cota, one of the founding officers of the Royal Presidio. “I truly feel it is my responsibility to give back whatever I can,” says Lopez, who currently occupies seats on the boards for Girls Inc., the Lobero Theatre Foundation, and the Peabody Charter School Foundation.
Given her devotion to family, holidays take on special meaning. Her Thanksgiving typically includes a feast with 30 to 40 family members, followed by a competitive game of Trivial Pursuit. Christmas brings another family gathering, complete with Christmas carols and an endless supply of tamales.
What does Lopez see in the future? With increased demands on her time, Lopez says, "I hope to continue trying to balance the time spent with my two loves: my family and my job."
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