Syracuse Sun

Audra Weiss, a key figure in the development of the global health innovation company Real Chemistry, passed away on December 31, 2024, at the age of 57. Her family, including her husband Jim Weiss and their children Ethan and Emily, were by her side. "Audra was a quiet yet powerful force who walked through life exuding grace, strength and class," her family stated.

Weiss was an alumna of Syracuse University, having graduated from the Martin J. Whitman School of Management. Her husband Jim also attended Syracuse University, earning a degree in public relations from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. In 2001, Jim founded Real Chemistry.

In 2012, Audra and Jim Weiss contributed to establishing the Weiss Center at Newhouse School to help students gain digital skills necessary for careers in communications. Nine years later, they returned for the opening of a new classroom funded by Real Chemistry called the Emerging Insights Lab—a social media command center for students and faculty.

Newhouse Dean Mark Lodato remarked on Audra's contributions: “Audra Weiss’ support meant so much to Syracuse University. She will always be remembered at Newhouse for her dedication to helping our students succeed.” He added condolences to her family: “We mourn her passing and extend our deepest condolences to Jim, Ethan, Emily and the rest of the Weiss family.”

Born in Coram, New York, Audra pursued a career in healthcare communications after graduating from Whitman. She met Jim through mutual connections due to their shared professional interests and love for Syracuse University. They were married for nearly 25 years.

The family described Audra as someone who valued motherhood over her professional career: “She knew from the get-go that she’d happily trade in her stellar professional career for a lifelong role of motherhood.” They also highlighted her role in Real Chemistry: “As an advisor and confidant, Audra made her mark on the business that would become Real Chemistry.”

Following a cancer diagnosis two years ago, Audra became an advocate for early detection and holistic care. She joined the board of the Dempsey Center—founded by actor Patrick Dempsey—which offers comprehensive cancer care free of charge.

The Weiss family expressed their commitment to continue advocating for cancer care: "The family said it would continue to advocate for early cancer detection and diagnosis."

A memorial service is scheduled for January 8 in San Francisco. The family has requested donations be made in Audra's memory to organizations such as the Dempsey Center, Family Reach, Hope Lodge, and Cancer Research Institute.