River Lopez serves as STEP’s Washington Programs Coordinator, where she connects military and Veteran families with resources, programs, and community support that help strengthen financial wellness and build long-term stability.  As a Social Scientist, River holds a BS in Justice Studies, MS in Sociology, and is currently pursuing her EdD in Organizational Leadership.   A nationally recognized military community advocate and the AFI 2026 JBLM Spouse of the Year, River has dedicated years to supporting military families through nonprofit leadership, volunteer service, and advocacy. She recently represented military families on Capitol Hill and in Washington DC with the Association of Defense Communities.   River met her husband during his time at Camp Pendleton and has spent years navigating military life across two branches of service. Her love for the military community started in childhood, as her father was a Signalman in the Navy. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing, spending time with her husband and five children, and hunting the good in the world.