After 4.4 million construction hours, on Thursday, June 25, we reached a tremendous milestone in the future of women’s healthcare in Central Texas. Thanks to the generosity of Ascension Seton Foundation’s Women First campaign supporters, the Ascension Seton Women’s Hospital opened with more than $19.5 million contributed by our donors to support equipment and programs.
The new, state-of-the-art hospital, located on the Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin campus, welcomed its first patients on Monday, June 29. Driven by a transformative $362 million investment, this 326,000-square-foot, 178-bed facility was purpose-built to provide comprehensive, specialized care for women at every stage of life.
With the Austin region experiencing continued growth, this expansion ensures Central Texas remains ahead of the rising demand for specialized maternity and women’s health services for generations to come.
“Together, we’ve spent the past four and a half years dreaming, planning, fundraising, celebrating milestones, overcoming challenges, and watching the old South Parking Garage transform into a world-class Women’s Hospital,” said Joel Rice, Executive Director of Ascension Seton Foundation.
See Women’s Hospital Opening Photo Gallery
More than 3,700 philanthropic gifts to the Women First campaign, inspired in part by the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, helped make this hospital possible. Those generous investments have funded critical equipment throughout the hospital, including providing our gynecologic surgeons with cutting-edge technology. They have expanded NICU mental health services, increased access to community doulas, strengthened the Food is the Best Medicine program, and supported the Compassion Closet.
“This hospital is so much more than a beautiful new building. It is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together with a shared vision. Every gift—large and small—helped bring us to this moment.” Rice said.
Soon after opening, on Monday, June 29, the first baby was born in the new hospital at 10:00am. Within one week, the new women’s hospital celebrated the birth of the 100th baby.
Beyond expanding access to specialized care, the new hospital demonstrates Ascension Seton’s commitment to improving the maternity experience for women and families.
Designed to support every phase of the maternal journey, the facility combines advanced clinical capabilities with welcoming, family-centered spaces that promote comfort, connection, and confidence during one of life’s most meaningful moments.
“This hospital is a reflection of our dedication to the women and families of Central Texas,” said Jamie Youssef, Chief Executive Officer of Ascension Texas. “We recognized the need for a space specifically designed for women, which would integrate the highest level of maternal and neonatal medicine and comprehensive care throughout all stages of life. We are thrilled to begin this new chapter in specialized, compassionate healthcare for the Austin community.”
The facility is designed to elevate the maternal and women’s health experience, balancing high-acuity medical capabilities with a supportive, comforting environment:
“ Every detail of this hospital was thoughtfully designed to support the physical, emotional, and clinical needs of our patients,” said Laura Swaney, Chief Strategy Officer, Dell Children’s and Ascension Texas Women’s Services. “Through clinical excellence and compassionate support, we strive to ensure every woman feels prioritized, empowered, and confidently cared for throughout her experience with us.”