Bucking Broncos: Kristopher and Miriam on the Road to Graduation and What Follows

Every graduation signals a turning point, but for two Fayetteville State University Broncos, December's commencement was just the beginning. As the campus shifts from celebration to a new semester, Kristopher Fletcher ‘25 and Miriam Delgado ‘25 are already channeling the momentum of their achievement into bold next steps. 

Both graduates saw their journeys defined by late nights, tough choices, and unwavering determination. The university’s motto, "Res Non Verba," which means "deeds, not words," is reflected in the way Fletcher and Delgado are advancing: one toward a career in analytics, the other toward advanced research.

Their stories reveal how education, paired with grit and opportunity, can open unexpected doors. As we follow each graduate’s journey, we see how the chapters they recently closed at FSU are already fueling new ambitions and proving the power of purpose in action.

Kristopher Fletcher: A Promise Fulfilled, A Career in Motion

Fletcher’s decision to return to college was shaped by a sense of responsibility that started long before he re-entered the classroom. Growing up in Fayetteville with parents in the military, he learned the importance of commitment early on. After graduating from Westover High School in the mid-2000s, Fletcher began his studies at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He later transferred to FSU, though his initial college journey ended sooner than he hoped.

In 2008, Fletcher joined the U.S. Army. This new direction led to a decade of service that refined his discipline and focused his priorities. Returning home after many years, he held onto a single promise: to his grandmother, that he would complete his degree.

“Coming back to school wasn’t easy,” said Fletcher. “But I knew why I was here this time. I had a promise to keep.”

Returning as a nontraditional student, Fletcher sometimes wondered whether he would fit in after years in the military. Instead, he found a new focus. With fewer distractions, he approached college with clear goals and drive.

An academic advisor with a military background helped Fletcher choose his major in business analytics and information technology. This field aligned with his analytical skills and interest in solving real-world problems.

Internships at MedPro Group were key to his growth. In his first role, he worked with the company’s vice president and chief information officer. During his second placement as a business architect intern, he developed stronger technical skills and found a clearer career path.

“Each experience helped me figure out where I really fit,” said Fletcher. “Business analytics is where I can make sense of data and help people make better decisions.”

Throughout his time at FSU, Fletcher also relied on mentors, including Rodney McCrowre, Ph.D., assistant department chair, and Stepheria Hodge Nicholson, a healthcare lecturer, both in the Broadwell College of Business and Economics. Their support reaffirmed his decision to return and convinced him that he could finish with the proper guidance.

Now a homeowner and MedPro Group campus ambassador, Fletcher is applying for full-time business analytics roles. He is ready to enter the workforce with industry experience and confidence gained through hard work.

Miriam Delgado: Curiosity, Confidence, and New Beginnings

Delgado’s path to graduation crossed countries and took years of steady effort. Born in Lima, Peru, she moved to the United States as a child, then returned to Peru at age 12 to finish high school and start college.

With the help of extended family in Fayetteville, Delgado returned to North Carolina, where she found support and stability. She earned an associate’s degree in science from Fayetteville Technical ¨Community College and then transferred to FSU, motivated anew.

Today, Delgado lives on her own and helps support her younger siblings. Her brother, following her footsteps, is a freshman Bronco, which makes her proud and gives her a sense of responsibility.

Delgado’s curiosity helped her find her academic path. Inspired by an uncle in information technology, she chose computer science, even though she was unsure at first if it was right for her. As she learned more, her uncertainty gave way to confidence and a passion for the field.

As an adult learner and transfer student, Delgado found support at the Adult Learning Center in Chesnutt Library. After her first year, she joined the Intelligent Systems Laboratory, working with Sambit Bhattacharya, Ph.D., professor of computer science and the lab director.

“Working in the lab showed me what computer science looks like in the real world,” Delgado said. “It made everything I learned feel real.”

Through hands-on research and projects in security and defense with government agencies, Delgado connected classroom learning to real-world experience and deepened her understanding of computer science. Bhattacharya described her as one of the strongest students he has seen in nearly twenty years at FSU, praising her curiosity and persistence.

“This degree means everything,” Delgado said. “I’m the first in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree, and I’m just getting started.”

Delgado plans to earn a graduate certificate in data science at FSU, then continue to a master’s program. She is also applying for jobs that use her research and technical skills.

Looking Forward

Together, Fletcher and Delgado represent more than individual achievements. Their journeys demonstrate the impact of dedication, mentorship, and seizing opportunity. For current students, they exemplify the value of staying committed. For alums, they showcase a university that continues to fulfill its mission.

In the steps these two Broncos are taking next, the meaning of Res Non Verba is clear. The work done here carries forward, not as words, but as deeds shaped by purpose and gratitude.