Congratulations to Harry Thomas of the Rotary Club of Novato Sunrise — Rotary District 5150’s Rotarian of the Month for May 2025!
Harry Thomas has been a dedicated and tireless member of the Rotary Club of Novato Sunrise since July 2007. Over the past 17 years, he has exemplified Rotary’s values through extraordinary service, quiet leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his club and community.
Harry has served in nearly every capacity imaginable: from Club Treasurer and Board Member to Club President in 2012–2013. He’s held roles on a wide range of committees, including Community Service, Youth Service, Vocational Service, Fundraising, Bylaws, Investment, and Debunking. He has also been a long-standing member of the Club Administration team, ensuring the early morning meetings run smoothly and efficiently.
Before retiring, Harry served as Chief Compliance Officer for Hennessey Funds, and he continues to apply his professional expertise to benefit the club. He chaired the Bylaws Committee, aligning both Club and Foundation bylaws with Rotary International standards, and drafted a Club Constitution where none previously existed. As a member of the Investment Committee, Harry has helped shape policy, oversee investments, and strengthen the Foundation’s financial future.
Harry is also a hands-on Rotarian, enthusiastically participating in numerous service projects and events. From planting trees and installing smoke alarms to leading student fishing programs and selling Christmas trees, Harry shows up and puts in the work. For over a decade, he’s been in charge of food and beverage operations at the club’s Oktoberfest fundraiser—an event that has become a cornerstone of the club’s community grant support.
Beyond logistics and leadership, Harry brings heart and humor to the club. As a talented writer and performer, he is the playwright, producer, and director of the club’s annual Debunking. He even hosts rehearsals at his home, bringing levity and celebration to the changing of leadership.
Harry is also deeply engaged in the broader Novato community. He has served for over a decade on the Novato City Economic Development Committee and played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic as a member of the Novato Small Business Relief Fund Committee, awarding $380,000 in grants to struggling local businesses. He has also developed and moderated the Economic Day program for Leadership Novato for more than 15 years, shaping future community leaders and advising on curriculum development.
For his exemplary service, Harry was honored as the Novato Chamber’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year. He embodies Rotary’s core principles: Service Above Self, People of Action, and The Four-Way Test.
Rotary District 5150 is proud to recognize Harry Thomas as the Rotarian of the Month for May 2025. Please join us in celebrating this outstanding Rotarian and community leader!