John H. and Ruth Ann Meyer of Cape Girardeau have announced the engagement of their daughter, Carla A. O'Connell, to Joshua J. Southard. He is the son of E. Jay and Jari Southard of Jackson.

O'Connell is a graduate of Notre Dame High School. She is business office supervisor at Southeast Missouri Hospital.

Southard is a graduate of Jackson High School. He received an associate's degree in applied science and a mechanical degree from Linn Technical College.

A March 4 wedding is planned at St. Mary's Cathedral.