Daniel L. Carter, a School of Social Work professor emeritus, who died at 87 on March 17, 2016, is remembered for his kindness and compassion, traits that made him a valued instructor in the social work program.

“As I look back on his great heart, kindness, and warm laughter, I think of him as a role model for us all, and someone whose door was open to us all,” says Carolyn Dillon, an SSW professor emerita, who worked with Carter. “This man was a pro, for sure. I always felt gratitude for all I learned from him within and beyond a classroom.”

Carter (SSW’54) graduated from Jamaica Plain High School and the University of Massachusetts and later earned a master’s in social service from BU and went on to teach here.

“Dan Carter was one of the nicest and most committed faculty members I have ever met,” says SSW Dean Gail Steketee. “I always enjoyed talking with Dan. He was a consummate clinician, concerned about his clients, self-effacing about his skills, and devoted to helping students learn, even as he sometimes doubted his own obvious skills in teaching them. He was a delightful man with a terrific sense of humor and a wonderful ability to work with people.”

When he wasn’t in the classroom, Carter enjoyed reading, traveling, having thoughtful discussions, and following politics. His involvement in sports and outdoor activities was also an integral part of his life.

He looked back with fondness at his many affiliations with the University—as student, professor, and parent. His four children, David (CGS’76), Elaine (CAS’81), Bruce (MET’85), and Stacia (SED’90), also attended the University.

“If Dan Carter were looking over my shoulder,” says Dillon, “he would have a big Irish smile of encouragement and satisfaction on his face. He would say something like, ‘I am in such a beautiful place now, no more papers to grade, no more sickness and sorrow, so many friendships here that will last into eternity.’ Good-bye, old friend. We will never forget you, and we will cherish that wonderful smile.”