Why would a D.C. lobbyist fight to save Goldin's B.U. presidency bid?

First, here's some background on the Boston University board of trustees' executive committee's recent recommendation to reconsider Goldin's nomination to preside over B.U:

http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2003/10/25/bu_trustee_panel_urges_goldin_be_reconsidered/

"[Former Boston University President] Silber was impressed with Goldin's credentials as the longest-serving administrator at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and he was influenced by Goldin's chief patron among the trustees, Washington lobbyist Gerald Cassidy, who is close to Silber."

Now then, WHY would Cassidy want to repay Goldin with such patronage? Perhaps to keep him quiet about Shuttle improprieties? Here's more on Cassidy's lobbying practice:

http://www.cassidy.com/expertise/main.asp?Id=1

"Cassidy & Associates professionals have a long history and depth of experience in aerospace issues, affording our clients significant advantages in this very competitive industry. The firm represents some of the largest aerospace companies in the world. We offer these clients insight into the decision-making process of the country's technical and defense agencies at the highest levels and access to the key decision-makers on Capitol Hill. For example, Cassidy & Associates has been involved in a nationwide campaign to begin the process of upgrading the US space shuttle. This large and complex effort pulls in professionals from all parts of the firm and is led by the former head of Legislative Affairs at NASA, now a Cassidy Senior Vice President. We also work on issues ranging from research dollars within NASA to the development of new remote sensing programs. Our ability to successfully work both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue and within the federal agencies has proven to be of material benefit to our clients."