Jay Hughes, who has spoken to FWR in the past about his writings and analysis of family dynamics, wellbeing and power relationships, has a new role with an advisory firm focused on developing a rising generation of adults.

This publication can exclusively report that Interface EDU, an advisory firm focused on rising generation development, has appointed James E “Jay” Hughes (main picture) to advise it in collaboration with The James E Hughes, Jr Foundation, a non-profit. 

The collaboration will bring Hughes’ Five Capitals framework into Interface’s work with young people and parents, translating a widely influential philosophy of family wealth into practical guidance for identity, motivation, judgment, relationships and long-term stewardship.

Hughes has built expertise and insights in family dynamics, wellbeing and governance, among other topics. Family Wealth Report carried this 2023 interview with Hughes here, exploring a recent book he had authored (see more about his writings below.) 

“Families have become very sophisticated at preparing assets for succession, but they are not always preparing the young person who will one day carry that responsibility,” Lorna Gray, president and founder of Interface EDU, said in a statement emailed to this news service. “Jay helped families understand that wealth is about wellbeing, not financial capital alone.” 

“Our work together will bring that thinking into the real decisions families make every day, including how parents set expectations, how young people build confidence and judgment, and how they learn to respond to setbacks and steward opportunities. Legacy is learned. Readiness is built, not inherited,” Gray said.  

Hughes will advise Interface’s leadership as the firm develops family guidance, developmental experiences and thought leadership. 

“Wealth is not financial capital alone,” Hughes said. “It is human, intellectual, social and spiritual capital supported by financial capital. When a person receives something they did not create, they must discover how to integrate it into their own life. That requires time, reflection and a clear sense of self. Interface understands how to help a young person pause and ask who they are before responsibility arrives.”

Headquartered in Missouri, Interface began 17 years ago in elite college counseling and has served more than 1,700 families, placing students at every Ivy League institution. 

As the firm followed students beyond the admissions process, it observed that many could navigate a highly selective application but remained unprepared for independence, uncertainty, difficult conversations and personal setbacks. College admission remains an important milestone, but Interface says that it defines success more broadly through a young person’s ability to think independently, sustain motivation without external pressure and act confidently.

Hughes has spent his career advising families and family office leaders on family governance, wealth preservation and multigenerational flourishing. He is the author or co-author of influential books including: Family Wealth; The Cycle of the Gift; The Voice of the Rising Generation; Complete Family Wealth; and Family Trusts. A retired private client attorney, Hughes was a partner at Coudert Brothers and Jones Day. He is a counselor to the Family Office Exchange and a recipient of its Founder’s Award. He has also received lifetime achievement awards from Family Wealth Report and advised investment institutions, private trust companies and philanthropic organizations around the world.