Next, the group made its way over to Morris Library to look at the Special Collection Research Center and Hall of Presidents and Chancellors.

After leaving the library, the next stop was the Pulliam Building's industrial wing, where participants learned about the art of glassblowing and ceramics.

Next, members had the rare opportunity not only to walk on the Saluki Stadium football field but also to tour the locker room. The group was also allowed to tour the women’s basketball locker room.

The next stop was at the steam tunnels on campus.

Brad Dillard of Plant and Service Operations at SIU said the campus produces about 15 percent of the university’s electricity from steam used in the tunnels. He said the steam is also used to create hot water, as well as heating and cooling buildings at the university.

Participants were able to walk down into the tunnels and learned the tunnels run all the way to the other side of campus by the Lesar Law Building.

Afterward, the group was treated to dinner at Trueblood Dining Hall on campus.

James Mayer, founder of Mayer Networks in Carbondale, said the tour lived up to his expectations.