(BRANCHBURG, NJ) -- Lisa Michelle Tucker of Whitehouse Station, Raritan Valley Community College Professor of English, has received a Special Projects Grant from the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission for her upcoming children’s picture book, Chessie Dentley Educates Mr. Ashbee.

The $2400 grant was issued upon the recommendation of the Hunterdon County Cultural and Heritage Commission. The project is expected to be completed in September.

Illustrated by Malik Whitaker, Chessie Dentley Educates Mr. Ashbee is an historical fiction children's book designed to help youngsters learn about the perseverance of an African American female pioneer educator. The book is based on the life of 95-year-old Mrs. Chessie Dentley Roberts of New Jersey. The story focuses on the educator as a child, when then eight-year-old Chessie Dentley, through her hard work and determination, was able to strengthen the math curriculum at her school.

Professor Tucker received an MFA in Creative Writing from Sierra Nevada University.  

Ranked by WalletHub.com and Niche.com as the #1 community college in New Jersey, Raritan Valley Community College (located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ) has been serving as an academic and cultural center for Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 50 years. The College has been nationally recognized for its service to the community, environmental stewardship, and commitment to diversity. It is home to  a Planetarium, Science Education Institute and 3M Observatory; a Theatre offering professional performances for all ages; and an Honors College for high achieving students.