CHRISTUS Children’s appoints new endowed chair in pediatric cardiology
2/27/2025
CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation and CHRISTUS Children’s hosted an investiture ceremony to celebrate the appointment of Dr. Ravi Ashwath as chair of the Richard S. Wayne, M.D. Endowed Chair in Pediatric Cardiology.
Ashwath is a professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine and the division chief of pediatric cardiology at CHRISTUS Children’s. He has nearly two decades of expertise and is at the forefront of advanced medical imaging and surgical innovation. As a visionary leader, Ashwath has transformed the field by incorporating cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and virtual reality into the division practice. His remarkable journey is defined by his unwavering commitment to empowering patients and medical trainees with a deep understanding of complex heart diseases.
“Dr. Ashwath strives to be a compassionate healer, dedicated educator and pioneering innovator. He inspires generations of medical professionals and brings hope to countless families while continually shaping the future of pediatric cardiology,” said Terry Kyle, president of CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation. “We’re honored to celebrate Dr. Ashwath with an endowed chair in recognition of his dedication to medical advancements and improving the lives of his patients.”
Ashwath earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in India and completed his pediatric residency at New York Medical College. He went on to pursue a cardiology fellowship at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, where he also served as chief fellow. Further honing his expertise, he trained in cardiac MRI at Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard University. He is board-certified in both pediatrics and pediatric cardiology.
In 2009, CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation and its endowment fund board established the Richard S. Wayne, M.D. Endowed Chair in Pediatric Cardiology to honor Dr. Wayne's unwavering dedication, commitment and leadership. Wayne began his pediatric medicine journey at CHRISTUS Children’s in 1972, eventually becoming the regional vice president and administrator in 1995. In September 2008, he transitioned from his full-time administrative role to serve as a pediatrician in the primary care clinic at CHRISTUS Children’s until his retirement in 2024.
Endowed chairs recognize and foster excellence among medical professionals who are leaders in their field. Clinical, research and educational opportunities for the recipient and the department they represent are supported through the earnings of a permanent fund. CHRISTUS Children’s has 10 endowed chairs.