Less teacher than some of the others, Merrick's zeal significantly increased the school's coffers, but disappointment followed at the failure of his attempt to abolish fraternities in 1870-1872 and anxiety during the years of the construction of Merrick Hall.
Fewer instructors than some of his peers, Merrick's enthusiasm substantially boosted the school's finances, but disillusionment followed at the failure of his effort to eliminate fraternities in 1870-1872 and unease during the years of Merrick Hall's construction.