Molly Copher | Brimfield, IL
Genetics Lab Manager | AgReliant Genetics
Locally grown, Molly Copher graduated valedictorian of Elmwood High School and went on to earn a B.S. in Chemistry from Bradley University. She works as the Genetics Lab Manager for seed company AgReliant Genetics and is a Registered Genetic Technologist. Nancee Filley has been impressed with Molly’s hard work and initiative. “She started at AgReliant 15 years ago as a seasonal temporary employee and during her first year she volunteered to create and build a seed treatment testing program. She chose the instruments and developed the methods of testing herself. The next year she was promoted to assistant manager of the genetics lab.”
Molly also serves on several genetic technology committees and boards, including the Genetic Technology Committee for the Society of Commercial Seed Technologists and the Registered Genetic Technologists Board of Examiners.
“Life is about figuring out the lessons as they come and taking each step one at a time until you build something meaningful out of the chaos.”
Molly had two ambitions as a child: to become a scientist and a writer. Currently, she feeds the writing bug by working as a part-time journalist for her hometown paper, The Weekly Post. Her science interests shifted early on but took shape in high school. “I had a chemistry teacher that really inspired me, and that's when I decided that I wanted to be a chemist.”
Molly also drew inspiration from her mom and her ability to balance responsibility with warmth. “She has been my greatest teacher, instilling in me a love for service, a respect for hard work and the belief that even small acts of generosity can change lives.”
Molly’s hard work and generosity extend far beyond the laboratory. She has sponsored 12 children through Children International, putting one child through college, helping one family start a business and building homes for six. She also serves as the Treasurer of the Cottonwood Cemetery Association and speaks at events. Women in Leadership of Central Illinois recognized Molly’s contributions with the 2025 Woman Leader of the Year award.
Molly credits her family as her greatest source of strength and joy. “My husband, Shane, has embraced his role as step‑father to my sons, Eli (13) and Tucker (10), and together we’ve built a foundation of love and support.”
Molly can often be found meeting with neighbors at the American Legion, gathering inspiration from friends at the Women in Leadership of Central Illinois or celebrating a monthly tradition at Olive Garden with her husband. “And honestly, if you dropped me off at a thrift store or at Barnes & Noble with a coffee for a few hours, I wouldn't be upset.”
