IN REMEMBERANCE OF DENA GUNNING

It is with profound sadness that to share the sudden passing of Dena Gunning. This loss is deeply felt across the emergency management community, and within the many committees where Dena generously dedicated her time and leadership.

 

Dena devoted more than 30 years to advancing emergency management throughout the Bay Area. Throughout her career, beginning with CARD of San Mateo County, the City of Oakland Fire Department - Office of Emergency Services, San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services, Thrive Alliance, and, most recently, the Central County Fire Department. Dena strengthened programs, built partnerships, and elevated preparedness and resilience in every role she held.

 

A lifelong San Mateo County resident, Dena’s commitment to this work was deeply personal. She believed in the shared responsibility to prepare and protect our communities. She did not simply contribute to the profession; she indeed helped shape it.

 

Dena brought energy, vision, and unity to the regional Bay Area network. She was the President of the San Mateo County Emergency Managers Association, co-chaired the Bay Area Earthquake Country Alliance, served on Bay Area UASI workgroups, the Joint Information System Leadership Committee, co-chaired the Bay Area CERT Coalition, and chaired the 2022 CESA Conference Committee. Her leadership was grounded in real-world experience, including the 2010 San Bruno pipeline explosion, and she consistently applied those lessons to strengthen coordination and preparedness across our region.

 

More than her titles or accomplishments, we will remember how Dena showed up for people, and colleagues. She was collaborative, selfless with her time, and unwavering in her support for colleagues. She mentored emerging professionals and made those around her better simply by working alongside them.

 

Her absence leaves a deep void in California’s emergency management community that will not be easily filled.

 

Please keep Dena’s family, her colleagues at the Central County Fire Department, and all who were closest to her in your thoughts during this difficult time.

 

This loss may affect each of us in different ways. If you find yourself needing support, please reach out to your peer support networks, trusted colleagues, or professional resources available to you. 

Looking for More?