Great thread! I’ll throw out one. It’s not elite, but the selectivity level is ridiculously low considering the school: San Diego State University. This was a top party school for years, probably still is. The only reason I can see as to why it’s so selective (admits apx. 30-35%) is because, well, it’s in San Diego. Who wouldn’t want to live here? 
But gak, I went there. Yawn. Someone tell me I’m wrong.
PS. Totally agree with post #142. They were considered the “lesser” Ivies. My cousin went to Penn in, hm, the 70s? And she can’t believe the transformation. She was there for her 40th reunion, and said she’s envious of my son attending.