We look forward to reconnecting with the Morehouse philanthropic community for this exciting event on Saturday, February. 14, 2026, when Morehouse adds six outstanding recipients to an influential and iconic list of Bennie and Candle honorees! 

This year’s gala will be led by Charles Malik Whitfield, an accomplished actor, producer, and director whose distinguished career spans film, television, and theater. Widely recognized for his portrayal of Otis Williams in the acclaimed, Emmy-winning miniseries The Temptations, Whitfield has also delivered memorable performances in films such as Behind Enemy Lines and Notorious. His extensive television work includes series regular roles on If Loving You Is Wrong, The Guardian, and Last Call, as well as recurring appearances on Supernatural, Chicago Med, Empire, and American Horror Story. He currently stars as Jules in Netflix’s number-one worldwide series Beauty In Black, bringing both artistic excellence and dynamic presence to this year’s celebration.