Lopes is a supporter of education, diversity, and outreach both nationally and internationally. She has given public lectures in several countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas and was the co-organizer of the United Nations/European Space Agency/The Planetary Society workshops in 1992 and 1993. In 2005, she was awarded the Carl Sagan Medal by the Division for Planetary Sciences of the American Astronomical Society,[15] in recognition of her efforts in public education, particularly among Hispanic groups and young women.[16] This work includes talks, interviews, articles, a book on planetary volcanism, and efforts to nurture and mentor young scientists.