Lopez was a psychologist who worked as a senior scientist for Gallup and as research director of The Don Clifton Strengths Institute.
He was also a fellow of the American Psychological Association.His research focused on hope which aims to show that investing in one's future reaps immediate rewards.
Lopez was also a vocal advocate for a psychological reform of America's education system with the goal of aiding schools to operate in a manner that encourages dynamic development and enables students to achieve meaningful futures that they desire.
His research studies the relationship between hope, strengths development, academic success and general well-being.
A great deal of his research specializes in hope and strengths enhancement for students from preschool through college graduation.Lopez died on July 23, 2016.