The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) at Cal State San Bernardino has long been a place where art, education, and community come together. Since opening its doors in 1996, RAFFMA has remained dedicated to a simple but powerful mission: making art accessible to everyone. In an era when many cultural institutions are becoming increasingly costly to visit, the museum stands apart by offering completely free admission, exhibitions, and educational programs. Every gallery visit, tour, and workshop at RAFFMA is open to the public — ensuring that creativity and cultural learning remain within reach for all.

That commitment to accessibility extends far beyond the museum’s walls. Through a wide range of programs, RAFFMA invites visitors to explore art from across time and around the world, from its semi-permanent “Journey to the Beyond” ancient Egyptian exhibition to rotating contemporary shows featuring local and international artists. Its free educational programs and community workshops offer hands-on experiences for people of all ages, while docent-led tours connect visitors to the stories and ideas behind each work of art. The museum’s approach is rooted in the belief that art is not a luxury, but a vital part of a thriving, connected community.

Students at Cal State San Bernardino are among the greatest beneficiaries of this vision. RAFFMA has become a launching pad for those pursuing careers in the arts, design, education, cultural preservation, and museum studies. Through internships, volunteer opportunities, and student employment, Coyotes gain practical experience in exhibition design, collection management, programming, and museum operations. These experiences don’t just strengthen résumés — they build confidence, open career doors, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Behind every exhibition and event is a team deeply committed to serving both students and the broader community. Under the leadership of co-interim directors Katherine Gray and Alison Ragguette, along with Preparator Michael Beckly, Exhibition Designer Gus Castaneda, Administrative Services Coordinator Erika Kelley, and Marketing, Membership & Engagement Coordinator Ashley Serrano, RAFFMA continues to evolve as a dynamic cultural hub. Together, the team has built a museum where ancient artifacts meet contemporary expression, where learning happens as much through participation as observation, and where every visitor — whether a student, scholar, or first-time guest — finds something that resonates.

That sense of connection is made possible through community support. Every donation to RAFFMA helps sustain the museum’s free access and educational programming, funding everything from art supplies for children’s workshops to conservation efforts that preserve the collection for future generations. Supporters can choose to contribute through several targeted giving opportunities, including the RAFFMA Fund, which enhances spaces and preservation efforts; the Fund for Excellence, which powers educational and cultural programming; the Programs & Engagement Fund, which expands outreach and accessibility; and the Student Success & Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships and hands-on learning opportunities for emerging artists and professionals. 

By bridging access, education, and community engagement, RAFFMA has grown into more than a museum — it’s a living classroom, a gathering space, and a catalyst for creativity. Each visitor, donor and student contributes to its shared story, one that continues to expand as new generations discover the transformative power of art. As Ragguette reflects, “RAFFMA is where art meets community. Every visitor becomes part of a legacy that connects us all.”

To learn more about RAFFMA and upcoming exhibits, visit the museum website. For donations, visit the Give Campus donation webpage.