I have some insights probably not best to put here.
Above seems like conjecture, and guessing. At this point they are putting out feelers and gauging interest, they have had a lot of interest thus far. There is not a a ranking yet, this all seems made up.
There is no formal hiring committee. The AD/Diana is overseeing the process and will make a recommendation to the President. From there the President may get advice from some USU advisors (board and donors).
They would love Hill involved. Not sure if there is interest.
Not saying tour FIL is lying, but his source is likely not as informed as he thinks.