Crafton Hills College formally introduces its Elaine S. Rosen Music Room to the community

Publish Date: Aug. 6, 2025

As finishing touches are being made to Crafton Hills College’s new Finkelstein Performing Arts Center, the college is honoring its supporters for their contributions to the building. Among them is Elaine S. Rosen, an area attorney whose love for the stage still shines as she approaches her eightieth year. 

“I grew up playing piano and acting in school plays. You just have to follow your heart,” said the area woman during a champagne toast and naming ceremony hosted by the college on Aug. 6. 

Rosen has held many positions during her career.  She has worked many years as an attorney, a judge pro tem, a law professor at several area colleges, and a long-time member of the Inland Counties Legal Services governing board. Elaine also volunteered for many nonprofit organizations, including the Alliance for Children’s Rights and Sexual Assault Services of San Bernardino. Finally, Elaine is a philanthropist. An endowment created in her name will support future Crafton performing arts students, many of whom will hone their skills inside the music room now bearing her name.

San Bernardino Community College Board Chair Nathan Gonzales commented on the significance of the contributions to this building project by referencing remarks by donor Clarence White at the dedication of the Redlands Bowl in 1930. White pointed out that “No city lives by taxes alone.” And Gonzales went on to comment that “in higher ed we can see that no college lives by taxes and student fees alone.” Heading toward the future, our students will be more successful because people stepped forward, whether by voting to support bond programs like Measure CC or with their own treasure given directly to the college or its Foundation. “It’s the arts that will give this place its soul,” he exclaimed.

Additional ceremony highlights included tours of the PAC, including the newly established Elaine S. Rosen Music Room, and remarks from Crafton Hills College Foundation President Amy Minjares and Rosen’s brother, Les, who shared stories about their upbringing with little financial security but a rich foundation in the arts.

“The naming of the music room is a testament to her lifelong passion in connection to music and dance, and her endowment will directly support students in theater, music, and dance, who will thrive within these walls,” said Les Rosen.

The new Finkelstein Performing Arts Center is slated for completion in Fall 2025. The state-of-the-art space will house a 274-seat main theater with space and improved technology to host large-scale productions, a smaller theater for more intimate performances, dressing rooms, a green room, and a scene shop. 

To learn more about the PAC and Crafton’s Theatre Arts Program, go to www.craftonhills.edu.