"The recidivism rate is reduced when inmates learn literacy skills, when they learn how to learn," said Swan, who spoke at Wednesday's graduation ceremony at the Utah State Prison. "It builds dignity."

Organizers for the gala had a fund-raising goal of $150,000 for the scholarship, and "we're just about there," said event manager Vanessa Di Palma.

The scholarships, which could become available for as many as six Utah teachers by this fall, are sponsored by American Express, Kennecott Land Development, the George S. and Delores Dore Eccles Foundation and Zions Bank.

Gala sponsors included the scholarship sponsors, the U. College of Education, Deseret Morning News, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation, Jeff Wright and Overstock.com.

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com