Paul Kunkel

Consultant - Health Management Associates

Paul is a 27-year law enforcement veteran, primarily with the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office in California. Throughout his career, he served in patrol, corrections, major crimes, narcotics, and gang enforcement, earning multiple honors including two heroism awards and Officer of the Year. He rose through the ranks to become Interim Assistant Sheriff, overseeing two jails, court security, prisoner transport, and civil operations, where he led initiatives such as behavioral health housing and a drug withdrawal management unit. He is a Certified Jail Manager and has commanded various bureaus, including maximum-security facilities, emergency services, and police services for the city of Millbrae. A recognized instructor and author, Paul has taught nationally on narcotics, mental health in corrections, and women in corrections. He holds a BA from UC Santa Barbara, an MA with honors from American Public University, and currently serves as President of his local Mental Health Association board, supporting housing for the chronically homeless and mentally ill.

Sessions