Miss Walnut Valley now Queen Alalah Finalist

Catherine “Grace” Henderson is a 19-year-old from Dexter, Kansas, currently pursuing a degree in Mass Communications at Cowley College, where she maintains a GPA of 3.33. Growing up in a close-knit family, Grace’s parents, Roy and Jennifer Henderson, are both Dexter High School graduates who have been married for 25 years. As an Orthopedics Specialist at SCK Health, Jennifer has dedicated over two decades to the medical field. Her father, Roy, is a Regional Manager for Environmental Health. His work often requires travel, but he has also been a consistent presence in Grace’s life, coaching her in softball and supporting her passions.

Grace’s educational journey began early; she started taking classes during her sophomore year of high school, which solidified her goal of obtaining an Associate's degree from Cowley College. She chose this path not only for its accessibility but also for the supportive environment it provides. At Cowley, she has become an active participant in campus life, serving as a Student Ambassador for the college and representing the student body at various events. Additionally, as the Student Director of Social Media for Athletics, she collaborates closely with coaches and athletes to create engaging content that highlights the achievements and activities of the athletic department.

Her commitment to community engagement is evident through her role as Miss Walnut Valley 2024. Over the past year, she has dedicated more than 80 hours to community service, engaging in activities such as volunteering at girls’ sports camps, helping the Dexter Fire Department with local events, and organizing town clean-up efforts. Her passion for giving back to the community drives her to seek out opportunities to do so.

As she looks to the future, Grace is considering a transfer to an aesthetician school, where she hopes to combine her interest in beauty and wellness with her strong communication skills. While pursuing a bachelor's degree online, she plans to explore various career options within the field of Mass Communications, including public relations and social media management.

Grace is particularly excited about being a queen finalist at Arkalalah, marking her third year attending this beloved community festival. Her previous experience as Miss Dexter allowed her to forge connections with other queens and immerse herself in the local culture. This year, she looks forward to creating even more lasting memories, participating in the pancake feed, and connecting with fellow queens as they celebrate their commitment to community service and leadership.

Grace Henderson embodies the spirit of a dedicated student, community advocate, and aspiring professional, all while remaining deeply rooted in her values and the unwavering support of her family. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, passion, and desire to leave a positive mark wherever she goes.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu