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“In towns and cities... there is no more important institution than the local paper.”
Warren Buffett
Lamplighter Staff Report
La Mirada High School teacher Adam Wilk has been awarded a $2,000 grant from Voya Financial’s 2025 Unsung Heroes awards competition, making him the only recipient in California and one of just 50 educators nationwide to be recognized this year.
The program, now in its 29th year, supports K–12 educators who bring innovative teaching methods into the classroom. Since its inception, Voya has awarded more than $6 million in grants to teachers across the country.
Wilk’s project, “ADUs: Engineering a Solution for Growing Cities,” challenges students to use engineering principles to address housing and sustainability issues in urban communities. Through the grant, students will build windmills to test renewable energy generation, design earthquake-resistant towers, and develop plans for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — small housing units built on existing properties that can support multigenerational living or provide rental income.
“This award is an opportunity to recognize the creativity and tireless dedication that educators demonstrate in the classroom each day,” said Braeden Mayrisch, vice president of Impact & Culture at Voya Financial.
Wilk will now compete for one of three top national prizes: an additional $5,000 for third place, $10,000 for second place, or $25,000 for first. Winners will be announced later this year.
For more information about this year’s winning projects or to apply for the 2026 grant program, visit the Voya Unsung Heroes website.