Dear Swartz Family, Dear Hilda:
It is with sadness that I learned of Merlin's passing. He was on the Religion faculty when I was hired as an adjunct in Jewish Studies, and the first to observe a class of mine. He was brilliant at offering critical observations in the kindest of manners, always with a good sense of humor. He was a wonderful colleague. We miss him! Michael Zank

To the Swartz Family,
I was a student of Merlin's in a number of classes. Anytime I saw his name in the available coursework, I jumped at the chance to take it. It was like being taught by an old friend (albeit a scholarly friend). He was full of joy. I am truly fortunate to have spent time with him. Wishing you warm sentiments. Jeremy Krumsick (CAS, 2008)

Merlin Swartz changed my life.  He was my faculty advisor when I was a student at Boston University in the 1980s.  He served as a role model, encouraging both my intellectual curiosity and my commitment to civil rights.  I am now an international lawyer, working in the Middle East.  I would not be who I am today had I not met him.  Thank you, Professor Swartz, for all you taught me.