On March 16, 2025, the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary (KPCLA) hosted a Women’s History Month Program at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Huntsville. Each year the KPCLA recognizes “gutsy women” for their contributions, courage, and exceptional leadership in making an impact by inspiring others. This year’s Gutsy Women Awards were presented to Kermit Elliott, Muriel Weston, and Claire Williams.

Kermit Elliott is a dedicated nonprofit leader, with over 25 years of experience in family advocacy and community support. A Huntsville native, she holds a Master of Social Work and a bachelor’s in human development and family studies from Alabama A&M University. For the past 11 years, Elliott has served as director of the Catholic Center ofConcern in Huntsville, where she has been instrumental in providing vital resources to families in need. Known for her compassionate leadership and tireless advocacy, she is committed to strengthening families and fostering communitystability. Driven by the belief that strong families build strong communities, Elliott remains dedicated to creating lasting, positive changes through her work in the community. 

Muriel Weston is a cornerstone of Holy Family Catholic School. For over 30 years, Weston has helped shape generations of students while teaching physical education. As a graduate of Holy Family School, she remains a cherished presence, with former students who have become doctors, lawyers, engineers, athletes, and more. When the students return to the school they always ask, “Is Mrs. Weston here?” Her impact, however, extends beyond the school day—she is the coordinator of the after-school program and supports school events after school and on weekends. On Sunday mornings, she works with religious education classes, preparing children for First Communion. Weston is a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. This year, the seventh-grade class honored her with a Christmas song entitled "The Twelve Days of Mrs. Weston." She has made a lasting impact on the lives she has touched. 

Claire Williams is a Helping Hand Angel. Originally from New York City, Williams has provided exceptional service to St. Joseph Church and Holy Family School. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an accounting major from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She is a devoted wife and mother and is fondly known as the school’s little angel. She has always been the “go-to” person when help is needed. Her commitment to the community is evident in her many roles from founding the St. Vincent de Paul Society to serving many years as the Christmas Basket Chairperson to taking on administrative roles such as secretary of Holy Family School and later business manager for both the church and school. She was also instrumental in the capital campaign for the building of the new church. After retiring in 2014, Williams’ passion for service saw her return as a part-time bookkeeper for the parish until her final retirement in 2019. Today, she continues to contribute by serving on the Finance Council, the Joyful Workers fundraising group, and holding the positions of national and international treasurer within the International Community of the Divine Savior. Her enduring commitment, exemplary leadership, and the warmth she brings demonstrates her unwavering commitment.

During the program, a litany in celebration of women was presented by the Litany Team, consisted of Michelle Nash, Carmen Amato, Lady Margaret Carter, Lady Bernita Briggs, Lady Laura Hall, and Shyntia Diallo. The team expressed devotion by honoring and recognizing women who embody strong, admirable qualities and a strong belief in God. Music for the program was provided by the Henderson Family, Kendall Greer, and the St. Joseph African Catholic Association Women’s Choir. Special guests included Sister Theresa Sue Joseph, secretary general of the Sisters of the Holy Family; Sister Mary Clare Thomas, Sisters of Christian Community executive director of Eldercare Support Services; Sister Sarah Aiden Burress, pastoral minister at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Birmingham; Sister Gabriela Ramirez, director of the diocesan Office of Emergency Disaster Services; Sister Veronica Ryan, Benedictine Sisters of Cullman sub prioress; Sister Edith Borgue, associate director of the Benedictine Sisters Retreat Center in Cullman; and Sister Benedicta Theresa, Sisters of Infant Jesus.

A question-and-answer discussion panel and reception were held in the church hall. Panel members were Sister Theresa Sue Joseph, Sister Mary Clare Thomas, and Sister Sarah Aiden Burress. The panel provided an opportunity for the sisters to share their insights and experiences as religious leaders. The discussions offered breadth and depth of their personal journey to becoming a Catholic sister.