Wayne Thompson relocated to Santa Barbara in the mid-1980s for a position in finance and contracts with Raytheon Company. Following several corporate relocations, he and his wife Marilee settled in Menlo Park, California in 2000.

The couple was introduced to Neighbors Abroad through neighbors Jim and Barbara Newton, who became close friends. Thompson joined the organization's board as a liaison to Palo Alto's sister city, Bloomington, Indiana.

His prior nonprofit experience includes serving as President and Treasurer of the Stanford Hills Homeowners Association and board membership in other charitable organizations.

Thompson and Marilee have two adult children and enjoy travel, gardening, cooking, and spending time with their dog Buddy.