Bob Callender has dedicated his career to strengthening public education, advancing union activism, and delivering meaningful results for his local membership. He has worked for Warren Consolidated Schools for twenty-six years and has served as President of the Warren Education Association for the past ten years. Bob holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan–Flint, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Marygrove College, and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Wayne State University. A lifelong Warren resident, Bob lives with his wife, Jessica, and their two children, both of whom attend Warren Consolidated Schools.

Campaign Statement

Bob Callender is ready to serve as our next MEA Vice President. Throughout his career with Warren Consolidated Schools, Bob has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to union advocacy while developing practical leadership experience at every level of the MEA.

Bob’s leadership journey began in his first year of teaching when he stepped forward as a building representative. He then advanced through his local association, serving as an executive board member, crisis chair, PAC chair, and bargaining team member for more than 20 years. He later served six years as local vice president, followed by more than a decade as full-release President and Chief Negotiator. In these roles, Bob successfully represented members, navigated complex challenges, and led high-stakes negotiations with professionalism, credibility, and integrity.

At the state level, Bob has broadened his governance experience through service on the MEA Board of Directors, the Staff Retirement Board, and the MESSA Board. He has also contributed to key organizational initiatives through participation on local affiliate committees, the Local Presidents Academy, and dues restructuring efforts. His breadth of experience — spanning classroom, local, and statewide leadership — positions him as a thoughtful, experienced, and highly effective candidate for MEA Vice President.

Bob champions a “locals-first” service model for MEA. He is committed to strengthening Presidents Academy programs, building full-capacity locals, and ensuring leaders have the tools and support needed to succeed. Bob believes in clear communication, consistent expectations, and meaningful accountability so that members’ needs are met. His leadership philosophy is shaped by his own experience as a local leader, where he understands firsthand that union resources must be focused on serving members. Under his leadership, the Warren Education Association has maintained over 99% active membership, with approximately 880 members in good standing throughout his presidency.

An experienced leader, collaborative team builder, and strategic thinker, Bob Callender is prepared to serve as the next MEA Vice President. He believes deeply in our union and in all members — support professionals, teachers, itinerant staff, higher education faculty, new educators, veterans, and retirees alike. With your support, Bob will provide the leadership and direction needed for MEA’s next chapter.

[Candidates for MEA offices submit biographies and campaign statements, which are printed verbatim. Elections are held at the MEA Representative Assembly in April.]