Celebrating Two Decades of Growth

Since 1996, Texas State University Round Rock has grown from a satellite education center into a thriving, student-centered campus. Explore key moments that shaped our journey—from early construction to academic innovation and bold plans for the future.

1996
portable classrooms

Courses Begin in Round Rock

Texas State University began offering classes in Round Rock at the Round Rock Higher Education Center (RRHEC), originally located on the Westwood High School campus.

2004
Avery building construction

Construction Begins on Avery Building

Construction commenced on the first building at the new site, establishing the foundation for Texas State’s long-term growth in Round Rock.

2010
School of Nursing

St. David’s School of Nursing Opens

The St. David’s School of Nursing opened its doors in August, welcoming the first cohort of students and enhancing the university’s presence in health education.

2017
Sleep Center ribbon cutting

STEM and Health Programs Expand

The campus expanded academic offerings in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health disciplines aligning with regional workforce priorities.

2021
Campus Services Building

Campus Services Building Opens

A new Campus Services Building opened, consolidating Facility Services, Parking Services, and the University Police Department to better support campus operations.

2025
students walking

Academic Programs Expand

Offering 19 undergraduate and 10 graduate programs, Round Rock Campus now serves a broad spectrum of academic pathways for today's students.

1998
Dr. Rehbein

Dr. Edna Rehbein Appointed Director

Dr. Edna Rehbein became the first Director of the RRHEC. She led the center from its earliest phase to a fully developed campus.

2005
Opening of Avery building

Avery Building Opens

The opening of the Avery Building marked the official launch of the Texas State University Round Rock Campus.

2012
Graduate students studying

First Graduate Education Students Enroll

Graduate programs in Education launched at the Round Rock Campus, offering advanced academic pathways for local professionals.

2018
Willow Hall event

Willow Hall Dedication

Willow Hall was officially dedicated as the new home for the St. David’s School of Nursing and additional health profession programs.

2023
Dr. Lessiter

First Vice President for Round Rock Campus Appointed

Dr. Julie Lessiter was appointed as the first Vice President for the Round Rock Campus, reporting directly to the University President.

2025
freshmen taking a picture

First Freshman Cohort Enrolled

The Round Rock Campus celebrates a major milestone with the admission of its first freshman class, signaling new beginnings and direct access to a full university experience.

2003
Avery brothers

Avery Family Donates Land

The Avery family donated 101 acres in northeast Round Rock, paving the way for a permanent university presence in the region.

2008
Nusring faculty

Nursing Program Established

The nursing program was officially created, with faculty hired and curriculum developed to meet critical workforce needs in health care.

2016
Willow Hall

Groundbreaking for Willow Hall

Construction began on Willow Hall, a new Health Professions Building designed to support growing academic programs in health-related fields.

2020
virtual learning

Virtual Learning Accelerates

In response to global needs, virtual and hybrid learning platforms rapidly expanded, increasing flexibility and accessibility for students.

2024
Groundbreaking for Esperanza Hall

Groundbreaking for Esperanza Hall

Construction began on Esperanza Hall, a new facility dedicated to supporting student services, academic success, and campus engagement.