Wayne Clawson is a native of Boone, North Carolina. He graduated from Appalachian High School and Appalachian State University. He was voted the most valuable player of his high school football team and selected as a captain for the University football team. After his military service to the United States Air Force, Wayne returned to Boone to join the advancement staff at his alma mater. He retired as Associate Vice Chancellor from the University in 2004. Wayne and his wife Joy have two children (Amber and Whitley) and three grandchildren (Landon, Berrin and Tice).