Greater Sudbury dedicates hall to late councillor Michael Vagnini

A special ceremony was held in Lively to honour late city councillor Michael Vagnini as hall at the community centre was named after him.

The City of Greater Sudbury has officially renamed the upper hall at the T.M. Davies Community Centre and Arena in honour of the late Councillor Michael Vagnini, recognizing his decades of public service, advocacy and dedication to the community.

A special ceremony was held on Thursday to celebrate his enduring legacy.

The event brought together Mayor Paul Lefebvre, city councillors, members of the Vagnini family, community representatives and local dignitaries. A commemorative plaque was unveiled during the ceremony, symbolizing Councillor Vagnini’s profound impact on Greater Sudbury through his work as a public servant and a volunteer.

Mayor Lefebvre stressed the significance of the dedication, stating, “Michael Vagnini was all about community and by renaming this gathering space in his honour, we are recognizing the profound impact he made and the lasting legacy of his service that is reflected in both his role as a City Councillor and his countless hours of volunteer work across Greater Sudbury.”

Erin Vagnini, speaking on behalf of her family, expressed gratitude for the tribute.

“My father lived his life in service of others. His unwavering commitment to the Greater Sudbury community was not just part of who he was – it was who he was,” she said.

“It is fitting that this hall now bears his name, as it symbolizes the heart and spirit with which he served.”

The ceremony also included a special recognition from the Walden Winter Carnival, which awarded Erin its Merit Award on her father’s behalf. The award acknowledged Michael’s longstanding commitment to the carnival and the broader community.

Many the event said the renaming of the hall ensures that Councillor Vagnini’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

“My father believed that a strong community was built on kindness, support and active involvement,” said Erin.

“It’s clear today that his legacy lives on in this very place.”

The City of Greater Sudbury extended its gratitude to all who attended the ceremony and contributed to this meaningful tribute.

The newly dedicated Michael Vagnini Hall is meant to stand as a testament to his enduring impact on the community he loved and served.

- With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Amanda Hicks