Dina Pugliese receives Vaughan’s Key to the City

“In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the Canadian television industry as co-host of the award-winning morning show Breakfast Television, it is my absolute pleasure to give the Key to the City of Vaughan to Dina Pugliese. 

“For more than 16 years, Dina has been warmly welcomed into countless GTA homes like an extended family member. With journalistic integrity at the core of her distinguished career, she has earned the trust, confidence and admiration of viewers in Vaughan and beyond. Her inquisitive mind, infectious laugh and remarkable capacity for empathy characterize her as a truly gifted and unique talent. 

“We all know Dina as the beloved co-host of Citytv’s Breakfast Television. But she began her career as associate producer of Global Television’s The Bynon Show and an entertainment reporter, writer and producer of Toronto 1’s Morning Show, Toronto Today. She also worked in the entertainment sector as host of The A-List and Star! Daily before joining Breakfast Television. Her hard work and professionalism have led her on a career journey that includes host of the MuchMusic VJ Search – The Series, for which she earned a Gemini nomination; guest judge on Canada’s Next Top Model; and host of the prestigious Women in Film and Television’s Crystal Awards Gala. 

“Raised in Woodbridge, Dina is a beloved daughter of the City of Vaughan. She has given back to the community through many worthy causes, including Mackenzie Health and the Princess Margaret Foundation. Her work to advocate for and advance issues surrounding personal wellness and mental health is making meaningful contributions to social discourse on important matters that impact every one of us. 

“On a personal note, this is a truly special occasion, not only because it is the first Key to the City I am bestowing as Mayor of Vaughan, but because my family and I, like so many others, appreciate Dina’s warmth and generous spirit. 

“On behalf of the residents of Vaughan and Members of Council, I want to express my most sincere gratitude to Dina for her inspirational work in the Canadian television industry. I am confident that as she embarks upon the next chapter of her life’s journey, Dina will continue to serve as an inspiration for future generations of community leaders.” 

QUICK FACTS 

• The Key to the City of Vaughan is presented at the discretion of the Mayor.
• The practice of giving a key can be traced back to medieval times when the gates to walled cities were guarded during the day and locked at night – the key was a sign of freedom as the recipient could enter and leave as a trusted friend.