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.
"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 14, 2026, Morehouse will commemorate its 159th 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!
Founder’s Week Schedule
This year's Founder's Week events run from Tuesday, February 10 through Sunday, February 15, 2026. See details below and check back for updates to this section.
PLACE: Augusta, GA
**Postponed due to inclement weather.
For the first time since its sesquicentennial anniversary visit in 2017, Morehouse College will return to Springfield Baptist Church, the location of its original founding in 1867.
PLACE: Ray Charles Performing Arts Center (RAYPAC)
PLACE: Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel
Theme: Building Principled Leaders: Steadfast, Honest, True
PLACE: Forbes Arena
LOCATION CHANGE: Bank of America Auditorium
Theme: Building Principled Leaders: Steadfast, Honest, True
LOCATION CHANGE: Bank of America Auditorium
The Reflections of Excellence program brings together trailblazers receiving Benjamin Elijah Mays “Bennie” Awards and Candle ...
PLACE: Forbes Arena
Join us for the Morehouse vs. Clark-Atlanta University Basketball Game.
Tickets will be available in January 2026 at morehouseathletics.com.
Reception: 6:00 PM/Awards Dinner: 7:30 PM
**SOLD OUT**
For pre purchased ticket holders only, you can make your check-in process smoother by avoiding lines and check-in in early.
PLACE: Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel
SPEAKER: Luke A. Powery, Dean of Chapel at Duke University
Founder’s Week concludes with a celebration of the Gospel.
PLACE: Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel
Additional Information
Purchase merch from the Morehouse bookstore online or in person.
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.
Meet The Team
The Office of External Relations and Alumni Engagement
Vice President, The Office of External Relations and Alumni Engagement
Chair, Morehouse College Founders Week Steering Committee
Director of Parent Engagement, Community Partnerships and Event Sponsorships
Director of Multimedia and Virtual Events Operations Manager, Ray Charles Performing Arts Center
