Those paying close attention during an art gallery scene in Monday's episode of “American Dad” might have spotted a familiar face, especially if they've spent any time at the Baltimore School for the Arts in the past few decades.

There, among the spectators, was the likeness of none other than Stephen Kent, the recently retired head of the school's visual arts department. He's there thanks to one of his former students, Brian Mainolfi, who has spent nine years as a storyboard artist for the animated TV show.

“Mr. Kent is a foundational person in my life — the first artist to treat me not as ‘some kid who draws,' but as an artist with legitimate ideas and goals,” Mainolfi said in a statement released by the school. “I draw for a living, and it is because of the potential Mr. Kent saw and encouraged in me. This was the least I could do to honor all that he did for me.”

Kent, who retired in June after 36 years at the school and who still lives in Mount Vernon, says he was flattered.

“He did more than justice to me,” Kent said with a laugh. “He smoothed out a lot of wrinkles, literally.”

— Chris Kaltenbach