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Founder’s Week

A robust week of activities blends the past, present, and the future with events designed to engage Morehouse College students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters. Events include the annual Founder’s Day Convocation, cake-cutting, Reflections of Excellence, and the A Candle in the Dark Gala.

Schedule of Events Purchase Gala Tickets

Celebrating Morehouse's History

“Et Facta Est Lux.” On February 14, 1867, rays of light emerged from intellectual darkness when Morehouse College was founded as the Augusta Institute by the Rev. William Jefferson White.

Morehouse College was founded as Augusta Institute on February 14, 1867 at Springfield Baptist Church in Augusta, GA by the Rev. William Jefferson White, with the Rev. Richard C. Coulter and the Rev. Edmund Turney. Since that time, Morehouse has become an iconic institution in higher learning, recognized globally for its impact in producing leaders who create systemic societal change.

2025-Candle-In-The-Dark-Gala-Flyer-web-final

the 37th Annual

"A Candle In The Dark" Gala

The “A Candle in the Dark” Gala is an exceptional evening of elegance and achievement celebrated annually in February during the College’s Founder’s Week observance.

On Saturday, February 15, 2025, Morehouse will commemorate its 157th year of educating and developing extraordinary leaders. Held at the majestic Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, the VIP Reception commences at 6:00 p.m. with the Gala following at 7:30 p.m. We hope that you will join us!

Gala Tickets & Sponsorships Hotel Accommodations

February 11-16, 2025

Founder’s Week Schedule

This year's Founder's Week events run from Tuesday, February 11 thru Sunday, February 16, 2025. See details below and check back for updates to this section.

A Candle in the Dark Gala

DATE: Sat., Feb. 15 @ 7 PM
The “A Candle in the Dark” Gala has become one of the nation’s premier events to celebrate African American achievement and raise much-needed scholarship funds for deserving students.

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Founder’s Day Convocation

DATE: Thurs., Feb 13 @ 10:45 AM
One of Morehouse’s most revered traditions in which the Morehouse family stops to reflect on its founding and impact on the future.

Founder’s Week Sunday Vesper Service

DATE: Sun., Feb. 16 @ 5:30 PM
Founder’s Week concludes with a celebration of the Gospel.
SPEAKER: Rev. Willie D. Francois III '09, M.Div., D.Min.

Reflections of Excellence

DATE: Sat., Feb. 15 @ 11 AM
The Reflections of Excellence program brings together trailblazers receiving Benjamin Elijah Mays “Bennie” Awards and Candle Awards in 2024 for their achievements as leaders in their fields.

Get SWAG

Purchase SWAG from the Morehouse Bookstore.

Purchase Morehouse Gear

Hotel Accommodations

Hyatt Regency Atlanta has been the longtime partner and supporter of Morehouse College’s ‘A Candle in the Dark’ Gala. Click the link below for the special Candle Weekend rate.

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