Paul Bonitatibus

A Harry Tompson Story from Paul Bonitatibus

When my son, Kris ‘90, was in 6th grade, Lewis Derbes ‘67 suggested that I be seen at JHS events and have Father Harry get to know who we were. When it came time for Kris to apply to Jesuit, a number of prominent alumni like Charles Derbes (’37) wrote Father letters of recommendation. 

 Kris did well on his placement exam and was accepted. 

 A month later, Kris and I attended the Jesuit Bazaar. It had rained the night before and there were a few puddles in the schoolyard. I saw Father Harry and suggested to Kris that we introduce ourselves.  

 We walked up to Father and were just about to say our names when he said “you don’t have to tell me who you are.” He then guided us over to a puddle and said “let me see if the two of you can walk on water like everybody is telling me.”  

 He then told Kris to run along and leaned into my ear and said “your ass is mine.” He was in my office the following day and told me I would be active in PAG and sit on his Advisory Council.