Molly Lenius Breaks Cookie Sales Record With 35,598 Total Boxes Sold
After 13 years of standing in snow, rain, and sunshine, Molly Lenius has sold more Girl Scout Cookies than any individual in Wisconsin history—35,598 boxes. This remarkable achievement is more than a sales record; it’s a story of perseverance, leadership, and the power of setting big goals.
“As a child, I was very shy. Selling cookies helped me get out of my comfort zone and taught me how to talk to strangers,” said Molly. “It also helped me with math and leadership. And it’s taken me to amazing places like Costa Rica, Panamá, Italy, and Hawaii.”
Over the years, cookie sales have funded Molly’s participation in Girl Scout Destinations, allowing them to explore new cultures, meet peers from across the country, and develop critical life skills. This summer, Molly will also travel to Italy, Turkey, and Greece—a journey made possible from dedication to the Cookie Program.
Over the years, Molly estimates between 500 and 700 hours were spent selling cookies—learning customer service, budgeting, and resilience along the way. They share that "standing up and saying hello" is one of the most effective strategies for drawing in customers. Molly’s approach is thoughtful and strategic, but always grounded in kindness and a commitment to community.
As the season winds down each year, Molly and their family make it a point to support others. Molly usually helps at least four sister troops in the final weeks by selling some of their cookies, too. Molly sees cookie season as a time for teamwork and mentorship as much as sales.
That spirit runs deep in the Lenius family. Together, they’ve sold more than 64,646 boxes of cookies—a Badgerland family record. Molly’s older sibling, Victoria, contributed over 29,000 boxes to that total. And their mother, Sheila Lenius, estimates she’s spent more than 1,000 hours supporting both children during their Girl Scout Cookie sales.
“Cookie selling is a bonding experience,” said Sheila. “Phones are put away and your kid gets your undivided attention when there aren’t customers. Use all this time with your kid to discuss anything and everything.”
Molly’s accomplishments go well beyond cookie sales. As a Gold Award Girl Scout, they led a community project at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, creating educational garden beds and digital tutorials to inspire hands-on learning. Their work—both locally and globally—reflects a deep commitment to service, leadership, and empowering others. From mentoring younger troops to representing Girl Scouts across the world, Molly’s journey showcases the lasting impact one dedicated Girl Scout can make.
Now a seasoned cookie seller, world traveler, and decorated Gold Award Girl Scout, Molly’s story is a testament to what’s possible when young people are given the tools, support, and space to grow.
Looking ahead, Molly plans to attend Iowa State University, where they will major in agricultural engineering and minor in mathematics. They also hope to study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country to strengthen language skills and broaden global perspective. With a foundation built on years of service, leadership, and perseverance, Molly is ready to bring the skills and spirit of Girl Scouting into the next chapter of their journey.
