California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) received a six-year grant, "Providing Aid for STEM Success" (PASS), from the National Science Foundation (NSF) in March 2024 to offer scholarships and tailored support to academically talented, low-income students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In its inaugural year (2024-25), PASS focused on two primary objectives: (1) establishing the initial cohort of S-STEM Scholars and (2) implementing faculty mentor training in line with NSF expectations. Despite minor delays in printed outreach materials, the program successfully employed electronic recruitment, a new scholarship application portal, and a standardized rubric to select 13 promising Scholars--8 lower-division and 5 upper-division--during Spring 2024. Following two mid-year withdrawals and the admission of one upper-division transfer, 12 scholars remained active by the end of Year 1, achieving an overall retention rate exceeding 92%. Meanwhile, the grant team has overcome four initial challenges to smooth the grant operation. Multiple learning events were offered throughout the year to help Scholars (1) highlight their career strengths via unique cultural experiences, (2) develop strategies to overcome toxic invisibility, (3) enhance personal branding, and (4) prepare for resume writing and career fair participation. All PASS faculty were engaged in mentorship training in Spring 2025. Underpinning these achievements was close collaboration with the Financial Aid Office, CSU Long Beach, the Chancellor's Office, and external STEM professionals. The report concluded with three recommendations to maintain program effectiveness and ensure the success of all S-STEM Scholars in Year 2.