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Sunflower....first of all, I am so sorry this has happened to you, your chapter and the alums of your organization. I lost my chapter so know somewhat the pain you are feeling. Yet, a little over 30 years later we are back on my campus in a beautiful new house and doing well. So hope does spring eternal!
Second, I know your campus and have 2 good PH friends who were initiated there. It's tough for them as well. I don't know if you have formally talked with your Greek Life office so I may be telling you things you already know. Your campus does not support locals. There are many reasons for this -one huge one being the HUGE risk mgt issues your campus has had in the past not to mention very bad national PR for some of the Greeks there. They want to control these issues and I understand that they should. So anything resembling a Greek local is going to be pretty hard for you.
Promoting yourselves as some other organization is also based on whether or not the U will recognize you. You may be required to have liability insurance which is going to be difficult and expensive. You really need to talk with your Greek Life office about the local question and the Dean of Students or whomever is over other student orgs so that you understand the U's rules on those types of orgs.
Additionally, the U has offered you meeting space,etc while there are still members on campus. While that may not seem optimal as the chapter would eventually cease to exist, I truly think it would be a situation in which you could maintain your identify, sisterhood and closeness as things play out.
And lastly, my group's founders chose the anchor for our badge because it is the ancient symbol of hope. So whenever you feel there is no hope in your situation, I invite to to go hug our anchor....and know that you and your sisters are in my heart. If any of the members ask why you are there, tell them that crazy old alum in Birmingham invited you over! Hugs.
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