1. The number of special interventions from politicians pushing for the admission of students became so large that the process had to be formalized: a computerized list, a plethora of emails. Small scale traffic of influence can be handled in face-to-face meetings; when it becomes large-scale, it becomes institutionalized. Hypocrisy is essential to the good functioning of any large institution. But hypocrisy requires plausible deniability.
2. As far as I can find in the various publications on the topic, no high executive at U. Illinois has expressed his support and confidence in any other high executive. They all seem much more intent to pass the blame around than to show any solidarity. This is sad and indicative of a dysfunctional leadership. It is also sad seeing senior academics using the "I followed orders" excuse. There is such a thing as academic independence. I can accept "I did not think it is such a big deal" (it is not) but I cannot accept "I thought it is awful, but could not do anything about it".
3. Somebody will need to fall on his sword and be the scapegoat. This will be the person that took most personal responsibility, allowing others to keep their hands clean. This. as usual. will not be the truly guilty party. Fairness is not part of the game.
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