Thomas and Jeanne Venem of Albert Lea announce the engagement of their son, Michael Venem, to Darci Bantz, daughter of Dennis and Sally Bantz of Auburn, Neb.

Darci is a 2001 graduate of Auburn High School and 2009 graduate of the University of Nebraska Lincoln with a doctorate of audiology. She is a practicing audiologist in the Twin Cities.

Michael is a 1996 graduate of Albert Lea High School and 2002 graduate of the University of Minnesota with a master of science in engineering. He is a business development sales manager in the Twin Cities.

A wedding is planned for Dec. 4, 2010, in Nebraska.