Faculty Spotlight

MR. ART CALLEN by Sherrie Basch Stelik (’72)

Art attended the University of Florida on two scholarships, one for track and one for boxing.  After graduating, he became Physical Education Department Head and Athletic Director at Bronson High in Florida.  Lucky for us, Gator left three years later and took over the P.E. Department at the newly built Monroe Jr. High.  President Eisenhower recognized him for his design of Monroe’s obstacle course.  In 1968, he went to MHS as Dean of Students and Athletic Director.  While maintaining his position as Athletic Director, he was promoted to Assistant Principal.  Art was also Principal of Summer School, 1980 to 1982.  In 1982, he retired and began "climbing the walls" until he was hired as a sports reporter on Torrance City Cable.  After impressing the hierarchy, Art was given carte blanche to host his own show.  "The Senior Scene" was born, covering activities involving seniors in the South Bay.  For 28 years (in 2010), he has held the position of Torrance City Commissioner on Aging.  If you do not get Torrance City Cable you can check out Mr. Callen’s acting debut in “Hardwood Dreams” (along with Mr. Slocum).  His professional and private life is full.  He has been married for 59 years (in 2010) to wife, Bobbie, and they have three daughters.  Candy is a teacher at Monroe, Dawn is a domestic goddess, and Heidi is an office manager.  He has three grandkids.  Kelly works with the Special Olympics, Kevin manages an Albertson's and their youngest, Kari, is disabled.  Kevin and wife Michelle have also blessed them with a great-granddaughter, Maddison.  At age 89 (in 2010), Art works out daily and is an active volunteer for Golden Retriever Rescue.  On July 19, 2009, Art was featured on Faces of Torrance for all his contributions to the community, his involvement with the Council on Aging, and for his cable show, “The Senior Scene.”  He talked about his childhood, his college days, time in the military, and yes, Monroe and Morningside too!  He was described as a gardener, world traveler, avid fisherman, sports caster and TV host.  In 2008, Bobbie and Art attended the Mane Event gathering.  In 2009 Mr. Callen not only attended the John Arrillaga jersey retirement event, he called the winning game against Beverly Hills High. 

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