Global Views’ David Gebhart Honored by University of North Texas

David Gebhart, co-owner, co-founder, and CEO of the award-winning home décor brands Global Views, Studio A Home – a Global Views Company, and WilliamDScott.com, has been recognized with a prestigious award as a Distinguished Legacy Member of the College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism presented by Dean Jana Hawley at the University of North Texas (UNT).

This distinction is given to individuals whose impact on the college has a long-term, long-lasting, far-reaching and positive effect on the students and faculty of the College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism. The honor celebrates Gebhart’s transformative impact on the home furnishings industry specifically and his decades-long commitment to mentoring future talent through internships and scholarships.

A proud alumnus of UNT, Gebhart earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing with a fashion emphasis after beginning his academic career at Texas Tech University as a Landscape Architecture major. “The connection I’ve had with UNT over the years has been personal and profound,” Gebhart said. “Many of our most valued team members began as interns from UNT — and I’m proud to say many of them are still with the company today, playing important roles in the company’s continued success.”

In addition to mentorship, Gebhart established an annual scholarship awarded to a deserving home furnishings major, selected by the College’s dean and faculty. The award serves as a legacy of his deep-rooted belief in supporting the next generation of industry innovators.

Retirement in Italy

Gebhart’s 44-year career spans every segment of the home furnishings industry — from department store buyer to global product developer and design pioneer. After founding Global Views in 1996 alongside partners Frederick Rayner and Lois Del Negro, the company grew into a premier resource for furniture retailers, specialty shops, e-commerce, and interior designers worldwide.

In 2023, the founders sold Global Views to Georgia-based wholesale/import leader Surya in anticipation of retirement. Now, two years later, that dream is being fully realized as Gebhart and his husband Frederick Rayner will officially depart the U.S. to become residents of Italy.

“Italy has always inspired me — from the design, the people, the lifestyle,” Gebhart shared. “This new chapter is about embracing beauty, culture, and the joy of a life well-lived. We’re excited for the adventure ahead.”