MSW - good thought but the choice of Conley - that is like a punching bag.  Who else could take over Lincoln and actually exist in that backwards diocese?

Mandatum - this could be a separate topic....not sure that is was appropriate and it was often implemented by folks like Conley to undermine LOL and as a loyalty test.  Yes, as you say, not in the spirit of LOL but lots of things have both unintended and intended consequences.  

Catholic universities need thinkers, researchers, etc. who may, for ethical and moral reasons, not apply for a mandatum.

Second, yes, universities are businesses - and their budgets are theological statements.  You merely repeat an old, and tiresome truism.  Let's focus on those finances as expressions of our mission, values, etc.  (your comment misses the mark by a mile)

Third, yes, lay boards can focus on big donors but that has always been so.  You missed the positive in lay boards by using a logical fallacy - begging the question/assuming the negative