Carsen Carpenter Finds New Opportunity to Connect Through Queen Alalah Journey

For Carsen Carpenter, Cowley College was originally about softball.

The 19-year-old from Derby, Kansas, chose Cowley because of its softball culture, but her experience as a Tiger has become about more than what happens between the lines. Now a nursing major with a 3.43 GPA, Carpenter is preparing for another opportunity to represent Cowley College and connect with the Arkansas City community as one of five finalists for Queen Alalah XCIV.

“I think this is a very honorable and memorable time in my life,” Carpenter said. “I am very grateful for this opportunity, and I can't wait to learn more and more about it as I continue my Arkalalah journey.”

A graduate of Derby High School, Carpenter came to Cowley with a clear vision for her future. She plans to continue her education at a four-year college after graduating from Cowley, where she hopes to continue playing softball while working toward her dream of becoming a nurse.

Her competitive spirit and commitment to softball are familiar parts of her life. Outside of the classroom, Carpenter's softball team also regularly participates in community service activities, giving her opportunities to contribute beyond the field.

The Queen Alalah experience, however, has opened the door to a different kind of community involvement.

Over the five weeks leading up to Coronation, Carpenter and the other four finalists will participate in a variety of activities throughout Arkansas City. They will meet with local service organizations, appear on radio shows, participate in Chamber Coffee during Arkalalah week, take part in formal and themed photo shoots, attend Dodgeballalah and the Queens Tea, and experience many of the traditions that make Arkalalah a special part of the community.

For Carpenter, that opportunity to meet new people and become more involved is one of the aspects she is looking forward to most.

“I am so excited to be involved with all of the people who are a part of this path,” Carpenter said. “I can't wait to be involved with the community and represent the importance of Arkalalah.”

While her time at Cowley has been shaped by softball and her pursuit of a nursing career, Carpenter also credits her family for helping shape who she is.

Her mother, Crissy Asmann, grew up in Mulvane and was involved in dance, softball and basketball. She now works as a supply chain manager at Textron. Carpenter describes her mother as someone who enjoys going on walks and discovering new books and television shows for the family.

Her father, Cory Asmann, grew up in Derby before attending Kansas State University and Wichita State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in business. He now owns his own insurance business and enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly hunting.

Carpenter is one of four siblings. Her oldest brother, Maguire Bailey, 28, lives in Texas with his wife and played basketball throughout his life, including at the collegiate level. Her brother Cael Asmann, 20, is in his third year at Kansas State, while her younger sister, Caityn Asmann, 16, attends Derby High School and is committed to playing volleyball at Pittsburg State University.

With a family that includes several athletes and a future that combines athletics with a passion for helping others, Carpenter has plenty of experiences shaping the person she hopes to become.

Her Queen Alalah journey is now adding another chapter.

For Carpenter, being named a finalist isn't simply about the possibility of wearing a crown. It is an opportunity to experience something new, meet people she may not otherwise have met and represent the college and community that have become part of her journey.

As she looks toward Coronation on Oct. 30, Carpenter is embracing the experience and everything that comes with it.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity,” she said.

And while only one of the five finalists will ultimately be crowned Queen Alalah XCIV, Carpenter is already making the most of the journey.

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