Some 50 students marched from the Presidential Courtyard to the university center on March 29 to protest efforts by Congressional Republicans to cut Pell and Stafford financial aid grants and interest-free loans by two-thirds. The marchers walked down Andy Holt Avenue chanting and carrying signs such as Give Newt the Boot, and Equality for Education. The marchers gathered for a rally at the south entrance to the university center and listened to speakers. The rally was organized by several campus organizations, including the Democratic Club and SPEAK. The alliance that held the march also circulated a petition to send to Tennessee representatives. The drive produced 250 signatures at the march.