The Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary 4th Degree notified member Lois Carson that she had won the Cartagena Award. It is the highest award conferred on a 4th degree member and Mrs. Carson is only the second winner from the Western States District since the 1970's.
Mrs. Carson, a 68-year member of St. Anthony Parish in San Bernardino, has organized, served, and volunteered in the Diocese and nationally for decades. She helped build the parish school there (now closed) and served as coordinator of the parish Gospel Choir. In later years, Mrs. Carson served nationally on the Development Commission for St. Peter Calver Foundation which led to her service on the Board of Directors.
The Knights of Peter Claver is the largest African American Catholic lay organization in the United States. The Ladies Auxiliary was established for female membership in 1926. The organization’s mission is "to render service to God and His holy church, render aid and assistance to the sick and disabled and promote social and intellectual association among our members."
Carson was nominated for the award by her Chapter and would have received it at their annual convention. Due to COVID-19, the convention was canceled.. She currently serves on both the regional and national Social Justice committees for The Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary.